Are you in need of a professional character reference but don’t know where to start? Look no further than these examples that can be easily edited to fit your specific needs.
Introduction
When applying for a job, scholarship, or other opportunity, a character reference can be a valuable asset to showcase your positive qualities. These references should come from individuals who have worked with you in a professional setting and can attest to your work ethic, personal character, and other relevant qualities.
Explanation
A professional character reference should highlight your strengths and provide evidence of your accomplishments. It should also include information about your character and personal qualities that make you a strong candidate for the position you’re applying for.
Using these examples as a guide, you can create a professional character reference that will impress potential employers or other decision-makers.
Tips for Writing a Professional Character Reference
When writing a professional character reference, follow these tips:
1. Use a Clear and Descriptive Title
The title of your character reference should be clear and descriptive, so the reader knows what to expect before they begin reading. For example, you might use a title like “Character Reference for John Doe’s Job Application” or “Reference for Jane Smith’s Scholarship Application.”
2. Be Detailed and In-Depth in Your Explanation
Your explanation of the individual’s strengths and character should be detailed and in-depth. Avoid generalizations and provide specific examples that show evidence of their accomplishments and positive qualities.
3. Write a Greeting Unique to Each Example
Each character reference should start with a unique greeting that addresses the person or organization receiving the reference. This will show that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter and make it specific to the recipient.
4. Keep Letter Body to 2 Paragraphs Long
Your letter body should be brief but powerful. Include two paragraphs that are well-written and packed with information about the individual’s strengths and accomplishments.
5. Create a Complimentary Close Unique to Each Example
Like your greeting, your complimentary close should be unique to each example. Make sure to thank the recipient for their time and consideration, and offer to provide additional information if needed.
6. Wrap Greeting, Letter Body, and Complimentary Close in Section Tag
For clean and easy formatting, wrap each example’s greeting, letter body, and complimentary close in a
Professional Character Reference Examples
Example 1: Character Reference for Jane Smith’s Scholarship Application
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend Jane Smith for the scholarship program. I have had the pleasure of working with Jane for the past two years as her supervisor, and I can confidently say that she is one of the most hardworking and dedicated individuals I have ever met.
Jane has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence in both her academic and professional pursuits. She is a natural leader and has shown exceptional mentorship skills, providing guidance and support to her peers and colleagues.
Thank you for considering Jane for this scholarship opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Character Reference for John Doe’s Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
It is my pleasure to recommend John Doe as a candidate for the position of [Position Name] at [Company Name]. During the three years I worked with John at [Previous Company], I had the opportunity to witness first-hand his exceptional work ethic and outstanding abilities.
John is a dedicated professional who always goes above and beyond to ensure the job is done to the best of his ability. His creativity, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to any team.
Thank you for considering John for this position. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference for Mary Lee’s Volunteer Position
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am pleased to provide this character reference for Mary Lee’s application for the volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have worked with Mary in a volunteer capacity for the past two years, and I have been impressed with her dedication, positive attitude, and exceptional work ethic.
Mary is a natural leader who has a gift for motivating others to work toward a common goal. She is creative, resourceful, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the project’s success. Her ability to take charge and manage multiple tasks makes her an ideal candidate for the volunteer position.
Thank you for considering Mary for this volunteer opportunity. Please feel free to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Character Reference for Tom Johnson’s Promotion
Dear Human Resources Manager,
I am writing this character reference on behalf of Tom Johnson’s application for the position of [New Position Title] at [Company Name]. As Tom’s direct supervisor for the past three years, I have had the opportunity to witness his outstanding work ethic, strong leadership skills, and commitment to excellence.
Tom is an exceptional employee who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the organization’s goals and values. He is a natural leader who has shown exceptional management skills, providing guidance and support to his team members to achieve their goals.
Thank you for considering Tom for this promotion opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Character Reference for Sarah Kim’s Graduate Program Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to provide a character reference for Sarah Kim’s graduate program application at [University Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with Sarah for the past two years, and I can confidently say that she is one of the most talented and passionate individuals I have ever met.
Sarah is an exceptional student with a strong academic record and an unwavering dedication to her field of study. She is a natural leader who has shown exceptional research skills, providing guidance and support to her peers and colleagues.
Thank you for considering Sarah for this graduate program opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Character Reference for Mark Lee’s Business Loan Application
Dear Loan Officer,
I am writing this character reference for Mark Lee’s business loan application. I have known Mark for the past five years, and I can attest to his exceptional character, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to his business goals.
Mark is a talented entrepreneur who has consistently demonstrated his ability to manage his business effectively and efficiently. He is a natural leader who has shown exceptional management skills, providing guidance and support to his team members to achieve their goals.
Thank you for considering Mark’s business loan application. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
FAQs
How do I write a professional character reference?
To write a professional character reference, follow these steps:
- Start with a clear and descriptive title.
- Be detailed and in-depth in your explanation.
- Use a unique greeting for each example.
- Keep your letter body to two paragraphs long.
- Create a unique complimentary close for each example.
- Wrap your greeting, letter body, and complimentary close in a
tag.
Who should I ask for a professional character reference?
You should ask individuals who have worked with you in a professional setting and can attest to your work ethic, personal character, and other relevant qualities. This could include supervisors, colleagues, or clients.
What should be included in a professional character reference?
A professional character reference should highlight your strengths and provide evidence of your accomplishments. It should also include information about your character and personal qualities that make you a strong candidate for the position you’re applying for.
How long should a professional character reference be?
A professional character reference should be 50 to 80 sentences long.
What should I do if I’ve never written a professional character reference before?
Use these examples as a guide and follow the tips outlined in this article. If you’re still unsure, consider reaching out to colleagues or professionals in your network for advice.
Can I use a professional character reference for multiple job applications?
Yes, you can use the same professional character reference for multiple job applications as long as it’s relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Conclusion
Writing a professional character reference can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the tips outlined in this article and using these examples as a guide, you can create a strong and impactful reference that showcases your positive qualities and accomplishments.