Writing a personal reference letter can feel daunting, but it’s a powerful way to support someone you know. This guide provides 23 diverse samples to help you craft a compelling character reference, whether it’s for a job, volunteer position, school application, or other opportunity. Understanding the key components and tailoring your letter to the specific situation is crucial for making a strong impression.
The following samples cover a range of scenarios and relationships. Reviewing these examples will give you a solid foundation for writing your own effective reference. Remember to personalize each letter with specific anecdotes and details that showcase the individual’s strengths and character traits. Authenticity and genuine enthusiasm go a long way!
A strong personal reference letter highlights the candidate’s character, skills and positive qualities. It demonstrates your belief in their potential and why they are a good fit for the opportunity. Be clear about your relationship with the person, the duration of your acquaintance, and the specific context of your knowledge of them. Always maintain honesty and professional integrity.
Consider the specific requirements of the request when writing the letter. Tailoring the letter to the opportunity demonstrates a commitment to providing relevant information. Include specific anecdotes that illustrate the person’s strengths and character. Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. A well-written and tailored reference letter can be instrumental in helping someone achieve their goals.
23 Personal Reference Letter Samples
Sample 1: General Character Reference for Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a position at your company. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a neighbor, friend, colleague]. During that time, I have been consistently impressed by their [Positive Quality – e.g., work ethic, integrity, kindness].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., dedicated, reliable, resourceful] individual who is always willing to go the extra mile. For example, [Give a specific example of their positive qualities in action].
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Reference for Volunteer Work
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position with [Organization Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a friend, member of my community group]. I have always been impressed by their commitment to helping others.
[Applicant Name] is particularly skilled at [Specific Skill – e.g., communication, organization, problem-solving]. They demonstrate this through [Example of Skill in Action – e.g., volunteering at the local food bank, organizing community events].
I am certain that [Applicant Name] will be a dedicated and valuable volunteer for your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Reference for College Admission
[Your Name]
[Your Title, e.g., Teacher, Mentor]
[Your Institution/Organization]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[College Name]
[College Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for admission to [College Name]. I have known [Student Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., Teacher, Mentor] at [Institution/Organization]. During that time, I have been consistently impressed by their intellectual curiosity, academic abilities, and character.
[Student Name] excels in [Specific Subject/Area], demonstrating a strong grasp of [Specific Skill/Concept]. For example, in [Context – e.g., my English class, a research project], they [Specific Action Demonstrating Skill – e.g., wrote an exceptional essay, presented their findings with confidence].
Beyond academics, [Student Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., dedicated, compassionate, driven] individual with a strong sense of [Positive Trait – e.g., responsibility, empathy, leadership]. They are a valuable member of our community, and I am confident they will thrive at your institution.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Reference for Apartment Rental
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Landlord/Property Manager Name]
[Property Management Company Name]
[Property Address]
Dear [Landlord/Property Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a prospective tenant for your property. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., a neighbor, friend, colleague]. I can confidently attest to their responsibility and respectfulness.
During the time I have known them, [Applicant Name] has always been [Positive Adjective – e.g., considerate, clean, quiet] and [Another Positive Adjective – e.g., respectful, responsible, dependable]. They are a [Description – e.g., reliable and trustworthy individual] who I believe would be an excellent tenant.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Reference for Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization/School]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Scholarship Committee
[Scholarship Name/Organization]
[Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Student Name] for the [Scholarship Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Student Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., Teacher, Advisor] at [Organization/School]. [Student Name] is an exceptional student and an outstanding individual.
[Student Name] consistently demonstrates [Strength 1 – e.g., academic excellence, leadership skills] and [Strength 2 – e.g., a strong work ethic, a passion for learning]. For instance, [Provide a specific example demonstrating these strengths, e.g., “in my Advanced Biology class, they consistently earned top marks while also helping struggling classmates.”]
[Student Name] is a highly motivated and deserving candidate, and I am confident that they will make significant contributions to their field of study. I wholeheartedly recommend them for this scholarship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Reference for a Friend Seeking Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend my friend, [Applicant Name], for a position at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years. During this time, I have been consistently impressed with their [Positive Quality 1 – e.g., dedication, problem-solving abilities] and [Positive Quality 2 – e.g., strong work ethic, interpersonal skills].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective – e.g., reliable, resourceful, enthusiastic] individual. In particular, I remember when [Share a specific anecdote demonstrating their positive qualities, e.g., “they helped me organize a successful fundraising event for a local charity, showcasing their organizational and leadership skills.”]
I am confident that [Applicant Name] would be a valuable asset to your team. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Reference Highlighting Leadership Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as a [Your Relationship – e.g., mentor, supervisor, colleague].
[Applicant Name] possesses exceptional leadership qualities. During their time as [Previous Role – e.g., President of the Student Council, Team Lead on a project], they consistently demonstrated their ability to motivate and inspire others. For example, [Share a specific anecdote showcasing their leadership, e.g., “they successfully led a team of volunteers to implement a new recycling program, resulting in a significant reduction in waste.”]
Their [Specific Skill related to Leadership – e.g., communication skills, problem-solving abilities, strategic thinking] are truly remarkable. I am confident that [Applicant Name] has the potential to be a strong and effective leader at your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Reference Highlighting Strong Work Ethic
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for a position at your company. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., professor, supervisor, coworker], and have always been impressed by their exceptional work ethic.
[Applicant Name] consistently goes above and beyond to complete tasks to the highest standard. They are [Positive Adjective describing Work Ethic – e.g., diligent, persistent, dedicated] and always willing to put in the extra effort to ensure success. For instance, [Give a specific example of their strong work ethic, e.g., “they consistently stayed late to ensure projects were completed on time, even when faced with challenging deadlines.”]
I am confident that [Applicant Name]’s strong work ethic would make them a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Reference Highlighting Creativity and Innovation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to highly recommend [Applicant Name] for a position at [Company Name]. I had the pleasure of working with [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., team lead, mentor, project manager].
[Applicant Name] possesses exceptional creative and innovative thinking abilities. They consistently approach challenges with fresh perspectives and are adept at developing unique solutions. For example, [Give a specific example demonstrating their creativity, e.g., “they conceived and implemented a new marketing campaign that significantly increased brand awareness and engagement.”]
Their ability to [Specific skill related to Creativity – e.g., think outside the box, generate new ideas, approach problems from different angles] is truly remarkable. I am certain that [Applicant Name] would bring valuable creativity and innovation to your organization.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Reference for a Babysitting Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Parents’ Name]
[Parents’ Address]
Dear [Parents’ Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a babysitter for your children. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship – e.g., neighbor, friend, family member].
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective describing child care ability – e.g., responsible, caring, patient] and reliable individual who is excellent with children. They have frequently babysat for my own children, [Children’s Names], who are [Ages of Children]. [Applicant Name] is always [Positive Adjective describing interaction with children – e.g., attentive, engaging, playful] and ensures their safety and well-being.
I trust [Applicant Name] completely and highly recommend them for your babysitting needs.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Reference for a Nanny Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Parents’ Name]
[Parents’ Address]
Dear [Parents’ Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for a nanny position. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years, and they have provided excellent care for my children, [Children’s Names], who are currently [Ages of Children].
[Applicant Name] is not only a responsible and trustworthy individual, but also possesses a genuine love for children. They are highly skilled at [Specific skill relating to nanny duties-e.g., planning engaging activities, preparing healthy meals, managing children’s schedules]. For example, [Share a specific anecdote, e.g., “They created a structured daily routine for my children that incorporated educational activities, outdoor play, and healthy meals.”]
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] as a nanny. They would be a wonderful addition to any family.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Reference for an Animal Shelter Volunteer
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name]
[Animal Shelter Name]
[Animal Shelter Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at [Animal Shelter Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., neighbor, friend, colleague], and have always been impressed by their love and compassion for animals.
[Applicant Name] is a [Positive Adjective Describing Animal Care-e.g., caring, compassionate, patient] and dedicated individual who has always been passionate about animal welfare. They are highly responsible and reliable, and I am confident that they would be a valuable asset to your volunteer team.
I highly recommend [Applicant Name] for this volunteer opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Reference for a Library Volunteer
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name]
[Library Name]
[Library Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position at [Library Name]. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Relationship – e.g., teacher, friend, neighbor], and I know them to be [Adjective that suits the role – e.g., organized, efficient, reliable] and diligent.
They have demonstrated their [Skill related to libraries-e.g., love of reading, attention to detail, organizational skills] on many occasions. One example is [Give a specific example, e.g., “they’re often helping others find books in the library.” ] I am confident that they will contribute positively to [Library Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Reference for a Tutor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Parents’ Name or School Name]
[Address]
Dear [Parents’ Name or School Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a tutor. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years, and they have worked with my child, [Child’s Name], in [Subject]. My child is [Child’s age] years old.
[Applicant Name] is [Traits that suit a tutor-e.g., patient, kind, knowledgeable] and explains things in a way that is easy to understand. Their assistance was invaluable, and helped [Child’s Name] improve significantly. I highly recommend [Applicant Name] to other parents.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Reference for a Music Teacher
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[School/Studio Name]
[Address]
Dear [School/Studio Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a music teacher. [Applicant Name] has been tutoring my child, [Child’s Name], in [Musical instrument] for [Number] years. [Child’s Name] is [Child’s Age] years old.
[Applicant Name] is an expert at [Musical Instrument], and excels in teaching my child. [Applicant Name] is also extremely [Good qualities of a music teacher-e.g., patient, encouraging, enthusiastic]. As a result, [Child’s Name] is enjoying learning to play [Musical Instrument], and is improving quickly. I have no reservations recommending [Applicant Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Reference for a Coach
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Organization/Team Name]
[Address]
Dear [Organization/Team Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a coaching position. [Applicant Name] has been coaching my child, [Child’s Name], in [Sport], for [Number] years. [Child’s Name] is currently [Child’s Age] years old.
[Applicant Name] possesses a significant amount of knowledge in [Sport], and is extremely skilled at motivating the team, teaching them techniques, and building camaraderie. He creates a fun environment while still improving skills and encouraging discipline. I highly recommend [Applicant Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Reference for a Camp Counselor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Camp Name]
[Address]
Dear [Camp Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for the position of camp counselor. For [Number] years, [Applicant Name] has worked as a camp counselor in the same camp as my child, [Child’s Name]. [Child’s Name] is currently [Child’s Age] years old.
[Applicant Name] is responsible, patient, and great at communicating with children. They ensure a safe environment and fun atmosphere, always looking out for the well-being of each child. I have no hesitation about recommending [Applicant Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Reference for a House Sitter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Home Owner Name]
[Address]
Dear [Home Owner Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a house sitter. They have house sat for me and my family for approximately [Number] years, and have always proven to be trustworthy and responsible.
[Applicant Name] is a responsible individual, and I have always felt comfortable leaving the safety of my house in their hands. I can confidently recommend [Applicant Name] as a house sitter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 19: Reference for a Dog Walker
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Dog Owner Name]
[Address]
Dear [Dog Owner Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a dog walker. They have been walking my dog, [Dog’s Name], a [Dog’s breed] for approximately [Number] years, and I am extremely happy with their service.
[Applicant Name] is patient, responsible, and kind, and treats [Dog’s Name] with love and care. [Dog’s Name] is always excited when [Applicant Name] comes to walk him, and I feel safe in [Applicant Name]‘s hands. I recommend them with no reservations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 20: Reference for a Lawn Mowing Service
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Neighbor’s Name]
[Address]
Dear [Neighbor’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] and their lawn mowing service. They have mowed my lawn for [Number] years, and have always been reliable and efficient.
[Applicant Name] is very reasonably priced, and my lawn always looks well-kempt and organized. I highly recommend [Applicant Name] to anyone needing lawn mowing services.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 21: Reference for a Landscaping Service
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Neighbor’s Name]
[Address]
Dear [Neighbor’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] and their landscaping service. They have been in charge of my family’s landscaping needs for [Number] years, and have always been reliable and efficient.
[Applicant Name] is extremely skilled with his tools, and knows everything about my backyard. They provide reliable service, and are reasonably priced. I confidently recommend them to all neighbors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 22: Reference for a Handyman
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Neighbor’s Name]
[Address]
Dear [Neighbor’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] and their handyman service. I have hired them for various odd jobs around my house for [Number] years, and they have always been reliable and skillful.
[Applicant Name] can fix anything you throw at them, and will be upfront and transparent about pricing and materials. They are responsible and efficient, and I highly recommend [Applicant Name] to all neighbors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 23: Reference for a Dance Instructor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Studio Name]
[Address]
Dear [Studio Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a dance instructor. They have taught dance classes to my child, [Child’s Name], for [Number] years. [Child’s Name] is [Child’s Age] years old.
[Applicant Name] is extremely talented in their craft, and knowledgeable on all dance genres. They are also [Good traits for
