A character reference letter, also known as a personal reference, provides an assessment of an individual’s qualities, character traits, and capabilities. It’s often used to support applications for jobs, volunteer positions, housing, or even legal proceedings. Writing a strong letter requires carefully considering your relationship with the individual and highlighting their relevant attributes. Focus on providing specific examples to illustrate your points, rather than making general statements.
Crafting an effective reference letter involves more than simply listing positive qualities. You need to demonstrate a genuine understanding of the individual and their potential. This means tailoring the letter to the specific context of the request, whether it’s a job application emphasizing work ethic, or a housing application highlighting responsibility. Remember, a well-written character reference can significantly impact the recipient’s decision.
18 Character Reference Letter Samples
Note: These are sample letter frameworks. You must tailor each letter to the specific individual and situation. Always replace bracketed information with accurate details.
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Sample 1: General Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for a position at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a neighbor, a colleague, a volunteer coordinator].
During this time, I have consistently been impressed by [his/her/their] [positive quality 1, e.g., dedication] and [positive quality 2, e.g., strong work ethic]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1]. Furthermore, [Specific example illustrating quality 2].
[Applicant Name] is a [positive trait 3, e.g., reliable] and [positive trait 4, e.g., trustworthy] individual. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your team.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 2: Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Volunteer Coordinator Last Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a fellow volunteer, a supervisor].
[Applicant Name] is a highly [positive quality 1, e.g., compassionate] and [positive quality 2, e.g., dedicated] individual. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to [cause related to the volunteer position]. For instance, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name]’s [positive skill, e.g., communication skills] and [positive skill, e.g., ability to work with others] make [him/her/them] an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that [he/she/they] will be a valuable addition to your volunteer team.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 3: Housing Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Landlord/Property Manager Name]
[Property Management Company Name]
[Property Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Landlord/Property Manager Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a tenant for your property. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a neighbor, a friend].
During this time, I have found [Applicant Name] to be a [positive quality 1, e.g., responsible] and [positive quality 2, e.g., respectful] individual. [He/She/They] are always considerate of others and take pride in maintaining a clean and orderly living space. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., reliable] and [positive trait 4, e.g., quiet] person. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a responsible and respectful tenant.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 4: Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a teacher, a mentor].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional individual with a strong commitment to [Applicant’s field of study or interest]. [He/She/They] possess a rare combination of [positive quality 1, e.g., intellectual curiosity] and [positive quality 2, e.g., dedication to learning]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] also demonstrates [positive trait 3, e.g., leadership skills] and a [positive trait 4, e.g., strong work ethic]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will excel in [his/her/their] academic pursuits and make a significant contribution to society.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 5: College Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Admissions Committee]
[University Name]
[University Address]Dear [Admissions Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to [University Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a teacher, a coach, a club advisor].
[Applicant Name] is a truly exceptional student with a passion for [Applicant’s Area of Interest]. [He/She/They] demonstrate a remarkable ability to [positive quality 1, e.g., think critically] and a [positive quality 2, e.g., genuine thirst for knowledge]. For instance, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
Beyond academics, [Applicant Name] is a [positive trait 3, e.g., responsible] and [positive trait 4, e.g., engaged] member of the community. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable addition to your university.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 6: Recommendation for a Friend
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient Name/Hiring Manager Name]
[Recipient Address/Company Name]
[Recipient Address/Company Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to recommend my friend, [Applicant Name], for [the position/opportunity]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years.
Throughout our friendship, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [positive quality 1, e.g., resilience] and [positive quality 2, e.g., positive attitude]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is a [positive trait 3, e.g., supportive] and [positive trait 4, e.g., caring] individual. I have no doubt that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to [the team/organization/endeavor].
Please feel free to reach out if you need any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 7: Legal Proceedings (General)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient Name/Judge’s Name]
[Court Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name/Judge’s Name],
I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for [Defendant Name]. I have known [Defendant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Defendant – e.g., a neighbor, a family friend].
I have always known [Defendant Name] to be a [positive quality 1, e.g., kind-hearted] and [positive quality 2, e.g., honest] individual. [He/She/They] have consistently demonstrated a strong sense of [positive trait 3, e.g., responsibility] and [positive trait 4, e.g., integrity]. For instance, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
I believe that [Defendant Name] is a fundamentally good person and hope that the court will take this into consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 8: Neighbor Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient Name/Landlord]
[Recipient Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to recommend my neighbor, [Applicant Name], for [a position/tenancy]. I have lived next to [Applicant Name] for [Number] years.
During this time, I have found [him/her/them] to be a [positive quality 1, e.g., courteous] and [positive quality 2, e.g., respectful] neighbor. They always maintain their property and are mindful of noise levels. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., helpful] and [positive trait 4, e.g., considerate] person. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a great addition to your [community/property].
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 9: Academic Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient Name/Professor]
[Recipient Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to recommend my student, [Applicant Name], for [an academic program/research opportunity]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Professor/Teacher/Advisor].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptionally bright and motivated student. They have a natural aptitude for [Subject] and consistently demonstrate a strong understanding of complex concepts. For example, [Specific example illustrating their understanding/aptitude].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., hard-working] and [positive trait 4, e.g., inquisitive] learner. I am confident that they will excel in their future academic pursuits.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 10: Recommendation for Babysitter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] as a babysitter. [He/She/They] have been babysitting my children, [Child’s name(s) and age(s)], for [Number] years.
I have always been impressed with [Applicant Name]’s [positive quality 1, e.g., responsibility] and [positive quality 2, e.g., patience] when caring for my children. They are always attentive to their needs and create a safe and fun environment. For example, [Specific example illustrating their qualities].
[Applicant Name] is also [positive trait 3, e.g., reliable] and [positive trait 4, e.g., trustworthy]. I highly recommend [him/her/them] to any family looking for a caring and dependable babysitter.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 11: Recommendation for Coach
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a coach. [He/She/They] have coached my child’s team, [Team name], for [Number] years.
[Applicant Name] is a skilled and dedicated coach. [He/She/They] have a passion for [Sport] and are able to effectively motivate and inspire their players. For example, [Specific example illustrating their coaching abilities].
[Applicant Name] is also [positive trait 3, e.g., knowledgeable] and [positive trait 4, e.g., enthusiastic]. I highly recommend [him/her/them] to any organization looking for a great coach.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 12: Character Reference for Coworker
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name],
I am writing to recommend my former coworker, [Applicant Name], for [the position/opportunity]. I worked with [Applicant Name] at [Company Name] for [Number] years.
During our time working together, I was consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [positive quality 1, e.g., work ethic] and [positive quality 2, e.g., problem-solving abilities]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., team player] and [positive trait 4, e.g., reliable] individual. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for [the position/opportunity].
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 13: Reference for Military Service
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recruiter Name]
[Recruiting Office]
[Recruiting Office Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Recruiter Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for service in the [Branch of Military]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a mentor, a teacher].
[Applicant Name] possesses the qualities necessary to succeed in the military, including [positive quality 1, e.g., discipline] and [positive quality 2, e.g., resilience]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., team player] and [positive trait 4, e.g., dedicated] individual. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for service in the [Branch of Military].
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 14: Reference for Foster Parent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Social Worker Name]
[Social Services Agency]
[Agency Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Social Worker Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a foster parent. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a neighbor, a friend].
[Applicant Name] possesses the qualities necessary to be a loving and supportive foster parent, including [positive quality 1, e.g., compassion] and [positive quality 2, e.g., patience]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., nurturing] and [positive trait 4, e.g., responsible] individual. I highly recommend [him/her/them] as a foster parent.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 15: Character Reference for Adoption
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Social Worker Name]
[Adoption Agency]
[Agency Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Social Worker Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for adoption. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a neighbor, a friend].
[Applicant Name] possesses the qualities necessary to be a loving and supportive parent, including [positive quality 1, e.g., unconditional love] and [positive quality 2, e.g., patience]. For example, [Specific example illustrating quality 1].
[Applicant Name] is also a [positive trait 3, e.g., nurturing] and [positive trait 4, e.g., responsible] individual. I highly recommend [him/her/them] for adoption.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 16: For a Scholarship Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Scholarship Committee],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a teacher, a mentor].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional individual with a strong commitment to [Field of Study]. [He/She/They] possess a rare combination of [Positive Quality 1, e.g., intellectual curiosity] and [Positive Quality 2, e.g., dedication to learning]. For instance, [Specific example demonstrating the applicant’s intellectual curiosity].
Beyond academics, [Applicant Name] also demonstrates [Positive Trait 3, e.g., leadership skills] and a [Positive Trait 4, e.g., passion for community service]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will excel in [his/her/their] academic pursuits and make a significant contribution to the community.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 17: For a Job Opportunity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a former colleague, a supervisor].
During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [Positive Quality 1, e.g., problem-solving abilities] and [Positive Quality 2, e.g., dedication to teamwork]. For example, [Specific example demonstrating the applicant’s problem-solving abilities].
[Applicant Name] is also a [Positive Trait 3, e.g., highly motivated] and [Positive Trait 4, e.g., excellent communicator] individual. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your team and make a significant contribution to your organization.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 18: For a Character Reference (General)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Applicant Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Applicant – e.g., a neighbor, a friend, a coworker].
Throughout our acquaintance, I have consistently observed [Applicant Name]’s [Positive Quality 1, e.g., integrity] and [Positive Quality 2, e.g., compassion]. For example, [Specific example illustrating the applicant’s integrity].
[Applicant Name] is also a [Positive Trait 3, e.g., reliable] and [Positive Trait 4, e.g., trustworthy] individual. I can confidently attest to [his/her/their] good character and strong moral compass.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
A well-crafted character reference letter can significantly benefit the individual you’re supporting. Remember to personalize each letter, provide specific examples, and focus on qualities relevant to the recipient’s needs. By following these tips and utilizing the provided samples as a guide, you can create a compelling and effective endorsement.
