A personal reference letter is a document written by someone who knows you well and can attest to your character and abilities. It can be used for job applications, academic programs, and even personal matters like adoption or immigration. If you’ve been asked to write a personal reference letter, or if you need one for yourself, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with a personal reference letter template and examples to guide you through the process.
Tips for Writing a Personal Reference Letter
Before we get into the template and examples, here are some tips to keep in mind when writing a personal reference letter:
1. Start with a title
Your personal reference letter should have a clear and concise title that reflects the purpose of the letter. For example, “Personal Reference Letter for Graduate School” or “Character Reference Letter for Job Application.”
2. Be detailed and in-depth
A personal reference letter should be more than just a brief statement of support. It should provide specific examples and details that demonstrate your character and abilities. Be sure to include any relevant accomplishments, skills, or experiences that are relevant to the purpose of the letter.
3. Follow a step-by-step format
To ensure your personal reference letter is well-organized and easy to read, follow a step-by-step format. Start with an introduction that explains how you know the person and the purpose of the letter. Then, provide specific examples that demonstrate their character and abilities. Finally, close with a statement of support and contact information.
Personal Reference Letter Template Examples
Personal Reference Letter for Graduate School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jane Smith for admission to your graduate program in psychology. As Jane’s supervisor at XYZ Corporation, I have had the pleasure of working with her for the past two years.
Jane is an exceptional employee who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work independently. She has a natural talent for interpreting data and creating insightful reports that have been invaluable to our organization.
Overall, I highly recommend Jane for admission to your graduate program in psychology. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Character Reference Letter for Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Joe Smith for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. Joe and I have been friends for over 10 years, and I can attest to his character, work ethic, and marketing skills.
Joe is a natural leader who inspires his colleagues to do their best work. He has a keen understanding of consumer behavior and is able to develop effective marketing strategies that drive business results.
Overall, I highly recommend Joe for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. He would be a valuable asset to your team and I am confident he would excel in this role. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Jane Doe
Personal Reference Letter for Adoption
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of the adoption of John and Mary Smith. I have known John and Mary for over 15 years, and I can attest to their character, parenting skills, and ability to provide a safe and loving home for a child.
John and Mary are kind, compassionate, and dedicated individuals who have always put the needs of others before their own. They have been actively involved in their community, volunteering with local charities and organizations.
Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend John and Mary for adoption. They have so much love to give and would make excellent parents. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Tom Jones
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write a personal reference letter for a family member?
It is generally not recommended to write a personal reference letter for a family member, as it can be seen as biased. It’s best to choose someone who is not related to you, but who can still attest to your character and abilities.
What should I include in a personal reference letter?
A personal reference letter should include an introduction that explains how you know the person and the purpose of the letter, specific examples that demonstrate their character and abilities, and a statement of support and contact information.
How long should a personal reference letter be?
A personal reference letter should be no more than one page long, and should include specific examples and details to support your claims about the person.
How should I format my personal reference letter?
Your personal reference letter should be formatted like a professional business letter, with your name and contact information at the top, followed by the date, the recipient’s name and address, a salutation, the body of the letter, a closing, and your signature.
Should I include my contact information in a personal reference letter?
Yes, you should include your contact information in a personal reference letter so that the recipient can follow up with you if they have any questions or need additional information.
What should I do if I am asked to write a personal reference letter but do not feel comfortable doing so?
If you do not feel comfortable writing a personal reference letter, it’s best to politely decline the request. You can explain that you do not feel you know the person well enough to provide an accurate assessment of their character and abilities.
Conclusion
Writing a personal reference letter can be a daunting task, but with the right template and examples, you can create a document that accurately reflects the character and abilities of the person in question. By following our tips and using our examples, you’ll be well on your way to writing a personal reference letter that is professional, detailed, and persuasive.