A personal recommendation letter, also known as a character reference letter, provides insight into an individual’s personality, skills, and qualities. It’s typically written by someone who knows the candidate well, such as a friend, neighbor, mentor, or former colleague. These letters are incredibly valuable when applying for jobs, scholarships, volunteer positions, or even apartment rentals, because they add a layer of personal assurance beyond formal qualifications. A strong letter highlights specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s positive attributes.
Crafting an effective personal recommendation requires thoughtfulness and honesty. Focus on the specific requirements or expectations of the opportunity the individual is pursuing. Tailor your letter to emphasize the traits and experiences that align with those needs. Don’t just list qualities; illustrate them with anecdotes. Quantifiable achievements or memorable instances where the person excelled are especially powerful. Remember to be genuine and present an authentic portrayal.
16 Personal Recommendation Letter Samples
Here are 16 sample letters for various situations. Remember to customize them to fit your specific relationship with the candidate and the context of the recommendation.
Sample Letter 1: General Character Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a neighbor, friend, colleague]. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] [Positive Qualities – e.g., integrity, work ethic, kindness].
[Provide a specific example illustrating one or two of these qualities. For example: “I witnessed [him/her/them] volunteer countless hours at the local soup kitchen, always going above and beyond to help those in need.”].
[Applicant Name] is a [Descriptive Adjective – e.g., responsible, reliable, compassionate] individual with a strong [Positive Trait – e.g., moral compass, desire to help others, commitment to excellence]. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to your organization.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 2: For a Job Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or “Hiring Manager”]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name or Hiring Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a former supervisor, a mentor, a colleague].
During our time together, I observed [his/her/their] exceptional [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] abilities. For instance, [Provide a specific example of how the applicant demonstrated these skills. E.g., “During the [Project Name] project, [he/she/they] took the initiative to [Specific Action], resulting in [Positive Outcome].”].
[Applicant Name] is also a highly [Positive Quality – e.g., motivated, detail-oriented, team-oriented] individual who is always eager to learn and contribute. I am confident that [he/she/they] possesses the skills and qualities necessary to excel in this role and be a valuable asset to your team.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 3: For a Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name (if known), or “Scholarship Committee”]
[Scholarship Committee Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Scholarship Committee Name or 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 – e.g., a teacher, a mentor, a community leader].
[Applicant Name] is an exceptional student with a strong academic record and a genuine passion for learning. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Positive Qualities – e.g., intellectual curiosity, dedication, perseverance] in [his/her/their] studies. For example, [Provide a specific example. E.g., “In my [Subject] class, [he/she/they] consistently asked insightful questions and went above and beyond to complete challenging assignments.”].
Beyond academics, [Applicant Name] is also actively involved in [Extracurricular Activities/Volunteer Work]. This demonstrates [his/her/their] commitment to [Values – e.g., community service, personal growth, making a difference]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will make a significant contribution to [his/her/their] chosen field and to society as a whole. Receiving this scholarship would be invaluable in helping [him/her/them] achieve [his/her/their] academic and professional goals.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 4: For an Apartment Rental
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Landlord Name (if known), or “Landlord/Property Manager”]
[Property Management Company Name (if applicable)]
[Property Address]
Dear [Landlord Name or Landlord/Property Manager],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a tenant for your property. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a neighbor, a friend, a colleague].
Throughout our acquaintance, I have found [Applicant Name] to be a [Positive Qualities – e.g., responsible, respectful, clean] individual. [He/She/They] is always [Positive Habit – e.g., considerate of others, mindful of noise levels, prompt with payments]. For example, [Provide a specific example. E.g., “When we lived next door to each other, [he/she/they] always maintained a tidy and well-kept property and was always respectful of our shared spaces.”].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a reliable and considerate tenant. I highly recommend [him/her/them] without reservation.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 5: Focused on Reliability
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] whom I have known for [Number] years as [Your relationship – friend, colleague, neighbor]. What stands out most about [Applicant Name] is [his/her/their] unwavering reliability.
[Provide an anecdote that showcases their reliability. Example: “When our community faced a crisis during [event], [Applicant Name] was the first to volunteer, organizing supplies and coordinating volunteers tirelessly for days. Their commitment was invaluable.”].
[Applicant Name] is not only reliable but also [positive quality, e.g., dedicated, resourceful]. I am certain that [he/she/they] will bring the same level of commitment to any endeavor [he/she/they] undertakes.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 6: Focused on Leadership
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Applicant Name]. I have observed [his/her/their] leadership abilities firsthand over the past [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., a team member, a student in my class].
[Give a specific example of their leadership skills. Example: “As captain of the [Team Name] team, [Applicant Name] not only led the team to victory but also fostered a collaborative and supportive environment where every member felt valued.”].
Beyond [his/her/their] leadership skills, [Applicant Name] is also [positive quality, e.g., an excellent communicator, a strategic thinker]. I am confident that [he/she/they] will excel in any role that requires leadership and initiative.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 7: Focused on Problem-Solving Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name], who I’ve known for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a colleague, a volunteer partner]. [He/She/They] possesses exceptional problem-solving skills that have consistently impressed me.
[Provide a concrete example where they solved a problem. E.g., “When our organization’s database crashed, [Applicant Name] quickly diagnosed the issue and implemented a solution that minimized data loss and restored functionality within hours, preventing significant disruption.”].
[Applicant Name]’s analytical abilities, combined with [his/her/their] [positive quality, e.g., calm demeanor under pressure, creative thinking], make [him/her/them] an invaluable asset in any challenging situation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 8: Focused on Communication Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I highly recommend [Applicant Name], who I have known for [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., a classmate, a member of my team]. [His/Her/Their] communication skills, both written and verbal, are truly exceptional.
[Give a specific example demonstrating these skills. E.g., “During our group project, [Applicant Name] was responsible for presenting our findings. [His/Her/Their] presentation was clear, concise, and engaging, effectively conveying complex information to our audience.”].
[Applicant Name]’s ability to communicate effectively, combined with [his/her/their] [positive quality, e.g., empathy, active listening skills], makes [him/her/them] a valuable communicator in any setting.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 9: For Volunteer Work
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name (if known), or “Volunteer Coordinator”]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name or Volunteer Coordinator],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at your organization. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a fellow volunteer, a supervisor].
[Applicant Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to [Cause Related to the Organization]. [He/She/They] is [Positive Qualities – e.g., dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate] and always willing to go the extra mile. For example, [Provide a specific example. E.g., “During our recent fundraising event, [he/she/they] took the initiative to [Specific Action], which significantly increased donations.”].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team and a passionate advocate for your cause.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 10: Highlighting Creativity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., friend, classmate, art group member]. What consistently impresses me is [his/her/their] exceptional creativity.
[Provide a specific example of their creative ability. E.g., “For the community art project, [he/she/they] designed and implemented a stunning mural that transformed a previously drab wall into a vibrant and inspiring space for everyone.”].
[Applicant Name] is not only creative but also [Positive Quality – e.g., imaginative, innovative, resourceful]. I believe [he/she/they] would bring a unique and valuable perspective to any endeavor.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 11: Focused on Adaptability
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., colleague, travel buddy, housemate]. Throughout our time together, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] remarkable adaptability.
[Give a specific example showcasing their adaptability. E.g., “When our team’s project scope unexpectedly changed, [Applicant Name] quickly adjusted [his/her/their] approach, learning new skills and taking on new responsibilities with enthusiasm.”].
[Applicant Name] possesses not only adaptability but also [Positive Quality – e.g., a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, resilience]. I am confident that [he/she/they] can thrive in any environment and overcome any challenge.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 12: For an Internship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Internship Coordinator Name (if known), or “Internship Coordinator”]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Internship Coordinator Name or Internship Coordinator],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the internship program at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a professor, a club advisor, a family friend].
[Applicant Name] is a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a strong interest in [Field Related to the Internship]. [He/She/They] has demonstrated [Positive Qualities – e.g., a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, problem-solving skills] through [His/Her/Their] [Experiences – e.g., academic projects, extracurricular activities, volunteer work]. For example, [Provide a specific example. E.g., “In my [Course Name] class, [he/she/they] consistently exceeded expectations on challenging assignments and demonstrated a keen understanding of [Relevant Concepts].”].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] will be a valuable asset to your internship program and a dedicated learner.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 13: Focused on Work Ethic
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am delighted to recommend [Applicant Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., former employer, project supervisor, collaborator]. [His/Her/Their] strong work ethic has consistently impressed me.
[Give a specific example showcasing their strong work ethic. E.g., “During the crucial deadline for the [Project Name], [Applicant Name] consistently put in extra hours, ensuring every task was completed to the highest standard and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to success.”].
Combined with [his/her/their] [Positive Quality – e.g., diligence, dedication, perseverance], [Applicant Name]’s work ethic makes [him/her/them] a highly valuable and dependable individual.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 14: Highlighting Passion and Enthusiasm
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
It gives me great pleasure to recommend [Applicant Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., club member, fellow artist, a student in my class]. I am consistently impressed by [his/her/their] passion and enthusiasm.
[Provide a specific example of their passion and enthusiasm. E.g., “When [Applicant Name] spoke about [Subject of Passion] at our club meeting, [his/her/their] enthusiasm was contagious, inspiring other members to get more involved and reigniting our collective passion for the topic.”].
This passion, combined with [his/her/their] [Positive Quality – e.g., energy, positive attitude, dedication], makes [Applicant Name] a truly inspiring and motivational individual.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 15: For a Program Admission
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee Name (if known), or “Admissions Committee”]
[Program Name Admissions]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear [Admissions Committee Name or Admissions Committee],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to the [Program Name] program at [University Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a teacher, a mentor, a supervisor].
[Applicant Name] possesses a strong academic record and a genuine passion for [Field of Study]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates [Positive Qualities – e.g., intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, a dedication to learning] in [His/Her/Their] [Experiences – e.g., coursework, research projects, independent study]. For example, [Provide a specific example. E.g., “During [his/her/their] research project, [he/she/they] demonstrated a remarkable ability to [Specific Skill] and made significant contributions to our understanding of [Topic].”].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the potential to excel in your program and make a significant contribution to the field.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 16: Acknowledging Overcoming Challenges
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Recipient Name (if known), or “To Whom It May Concern”]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Recipient Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name], whom I’ve known for [Number] years as [Your relationship – e.g., a close friend, a family member, a support group member]. While [Applicant Name]’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, I am profoundly impressed by [his/her/their] resilience and determination.
[Briefly and sensitively describe the challenge they faced, focusing on their response. E.g., “After experiencing [Challenge], [Applicant Name] demonstrated incredible strength by [Action Taken], showing a remarkable capacity for growth and perseverance.”].
[Applicant Name]’s ability to overcome adversity, combined with [his/her/their] [Positive Quality – e.g., optimism, determination, compassion], makes [him/her/them] an exceptionally strong and inspiring individual. I am confident in [his/her/their] ability to succeed.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
These sample personal recommendation letters provide a strong foundation for crafting your own. Remember, the key is to personalize each letter with specific details and anecdotes that showcase the applicant’s unique qualities and abilities. A genuine and well-written letter can significantly impact the applicant’s chances of success. Focus on highlighting the individual’s strengths and illustrating them with concrete examples to make your recommendation stand out. Every situation requires a unique approach, so adapt the templates to best reflect the applicant’s suitability for the opportunity.
