If you are looking to enhance the value of your resume, adding a character reference is a great way to achieve that. A character reference is someone who knows you on a personal level and can vouch for your character and work ethic. In this article, we will provide tips and examples to help you create a compelling character reference for your resume.
Tips for Creating a Character Reference in Resume
Here are some tips to keep in mind when creating a character reference in your resume:
1. Choose the Right Person
The first step in creating a character reference for your resume is to choose the right person. Look for someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and work ethic. This could be a former employer, coworker, teacher, or mentor.
2. Make it Relevant
When creating your character reference, make sure it is relevant to the job you are applying for. Highlight skills and attributes that are important to the position and show how your character reference can vouch for those skills.
3. Keep it Brief
Keep your character reference brief and to the point. You do not want to overwhelm the reader with too much information. Stick to the most important points and keep it concise.
4. Use Specific Examples
Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and work ethic. This will help the reader understand how your character reference knows you and what they can vouch for. Specific examples also make your resume more memorable.
5. Edit as Needed
Make sure to edit your character reference as needed for each job application. Customize the reference to match the job requirements and show how your skills and attributes align with the position.
Sample Character References for Resume
Reference for Leadership Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I have had the pleasure of working with [Name] for the past [Number] years and can attest to their exceptional leadership skills. [He/She] has a natural ability to motivate and inspire team members, while also setting clear goals and expectations.
One example of [Name]’s excellent leadership was when [he/she] led a team of [Number] employees to achieve [Specific Goal]. [He/She] was able to delegate tasks effectively and ensure that everyone was working towards the same goal. [He/She] also provided valuable feedback and support throughout the process.
I highly recommend [Name] for any leadership position and believe that [he/she] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Dependability
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly dependable and reliable employee. As [his/her] former supervisor, I can attest to [his/her] outstanding work ethic and commitment to meeting deadlines.
During [his/her] time at [Company], [Name] was responsible for [Specific Task]. [He/She] always completed the task on time and with great attention to detail. [He/She] was also willing to go above and beyond to ensure that the project was a success.
I have no doubt that [Name] will bring the same level of dedication and reliability to any position [he/she] takes on. I highly recommend [him/her] for any job that requires a dependable and hardworking employee.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Customer Service Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly skilled customer service representative. I had the pleasure of working with [him/her] at [Company] where [he/she] consistently went above and beyond to provide outstanding customer service.
One example of [Name]’s exceptional customer service was when [he/she] helped a customer who was experiencing a problem with [Specific Issue]. [He/She] listened carefully to the customer’s concerns and came up with a creative solution that exceeded their expectations.
Overall, I highly recommend [Name] for any customer service position. [He/She] has a natural ability to connect with customers and provide excellent service that leaves a lasting impression.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Attention to Detail
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly detail-oriented and organized employee. During [his/her] time at [Company], [he/she] was responsible for [Specific Task] which required great attention to detail and accuracy.
[Name] always completed the task on time and with great attention to detail. [He/She] was also able to identify potential problems and find solutions before they became major issues. [He/She] was a valuable asset to the team and always went above and beyond to ensure that the work was done to the highest standards.
I highly recommend [Name] for any position that requires a detail-oriented and reliable employee. [He/She] would be a valuable asset to any team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Adaptability
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly adaptable and flexible employee. During [his/her] time at [Company], [he/she] was able to quickly adapt to changing situations and take on new responsibilities with ease.
One example of [Name]’s adaptability was when [he/she] was asked to take on a new project that was outside of [his/her] usual area of expertise. [He/She] was able to quickly learn the necessary skills and complete the project to a high standard.
I highly recommend [Name] for any position that requires a flexible and adaptable employee. [He/She] is a quick learner and always willing to take on new challenges.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Positive Attitude
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly positive and enthusiastic employee. [He/She] has an infectious energy and always brings a positive attitude to the workplace.
During [his/her] time at [Company], [Name] was always willing to help out with any task, no matter how big or small. [He/She] approached each task with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude that inspired others to do the same.
I highly recommend [Name] for any position that requires a positive and motivated employee. [He/She] is a true team player and always eager to contribute to the success of the team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Interpersonal Skills
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend [Name] as a highly skilled and personable employee. [He/She] has excellent interpersonal skills and is able to connect with people from all walks of life.
During [his/her] time at [Company], [Name] was responsible for [Specific Task] which required great communication skills. [He/She] was able to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike, and was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone felt valued and heard.
I highly recommend [Name] for any position that requires strong interpersonal skills. [He/She] is a natural communicator and would be a valuable asset to any team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference in a resume?
A character reference is someone who knows you on a personal level and can vouch for your character and work ethic. Adding a character reference to your resume can help enhance your value as a job candidate.
Who should I choose as my character reference?
You should choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your character and work ethic. This could be a former employer, coworker, teacher, or mentor.
How long should my character reference be?
Your character reference should be brief and to the point. Stick to the most important points and keep it concise. Aim for 50 to 80 sentences.
What should I include in my character reference?
You should include specific examples to illustrate your skills and work ethic. Use examples that are relevant to the job you are applying for and show how your character reference can vouch for those skills.
How do I edit my character reference for each job application?
Customize your character reference to match the job requirements and show how your skills and attributes align with the position. Highlight skills and attributes that are important to the position and show how your character reference can vouch for those skills.
Can I use the same character reference for multiple job applications?
You can use the same character reference for multiple job applications, but make sure to edit it as needed for each job application. Customize the reference to match the job requirements and show how your skills and attributes align with the position.
Conclusion
Adding a character reference to your resume can be a great way to enhance your value as a job candidate. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a compelling character reference that showcases your skills and work ethic. Remember to customize your reference for each job application and highlight the most important points. Good luck with your job search!