A character reference letter, also known as a personal reference letter, provides insight into an individual’s personality, qualities, and overall character. It’s often requested for various reasons, including job applications, apartment rentals, court proceedings, and volunteer opportunities. A strong letter can significantly influence the decision-making process, highlighting the applicant’s suitability and trustworthiness. Knowing how to craft an impactful letter is essential for anyone asked to provide a character reference. This guide offers twelve diverse examples to help you write your own compelling letter.
The key to a successful character reference letter is to be specific and provide concrete examples. Avoid vague statements and instead focus on showcasing the individual’s strengths through real-life situations you’ve witnessed. Highlight qualities relevant to the context of the request. For instance, if writing a letter for a job application, emphasize traits like responsibility, work ethic, and teamwork. For a rental application, focus on reliability, respectfulness, and cleanliness. Tailor your letter to the specific needs of the situation for maximum impact. Remember to always be truthful and honest in your assessment.
12 Sample Character Reference Letters
Sample 1: General Job Application
[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 a [Your Relationship to Applicant]. [He/She/They] is a highly motivated and responsible individual. For example, [He/She/They] consistently volunteered to help colleagues complete projects when faced with looming deadlines.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: 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],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] as a potential tenant. I have been [Applicant Name]’s neighbor for the past [Number] years. [He/She/They] is a quiet, respectful, and considerate individual. [He/She/They] always keeps [his/her/their] property clean and tidy and has never caused any disturbances. I am confident [he/she/they] would be an excellent tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name]
[Scholarship Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Scholarship Committee Name],
I am writing to strongly endorse [Applicant Name] for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. As [Applicant Name]’s [Your Role – e.g., teacher, mentor] for the past [Number] years, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her/their] dedication to learning and [his/her/their] unwavering commitment to academic excellence. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated leadership skills.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant Name] for a volunteer position with your organization. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years and have witnessed [his/her/their] genuine passion for helping others. [He/She/They] is a compassionate and reliable individual who would be a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Court Proceeding
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
To the Honorable Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant Name]. I have known [Defendant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship to Defendant]. During this time, [he/she/they] has always been a responsible and upstanding member of the community. I believe [he/she/they] deserves a second chance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Child Custody Case
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
To the Honorable Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Parent Name] regarding the child custody case of [Child’s Name]. As a close friend of [Parent Name] for [Number] years, I have witnessed firsthand [his/her/their] dedication and love for [Child’s Name]. [He/She/They] is a loving and supportive parent.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Pet Adoption
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Adoption Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
Dear [Adoption Agency Contact Person],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] as a responsible and loving pet owner. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years, and I am confident that [he/she/they] would provide a safe and caring home for a pet. [He/She/They] is responsible and understands the commitment required.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Promotion Recommendation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[HR Department/Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [HR Department/Manager Name],
I am writing to strongly recommend [Employee Name] for a promotion to the position of [Position Name]. I have worked alongside [Employee Name] for [Number] years. [He/She/They] has consistently exceeded expectations and demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Business Partnership
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Partner Name] as a reliable and trustworthy business partner. I have worked with [Partner Name] on various projects over the past [Number] years. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Loan Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Loan Officer/Bank Name]
[Bank Address]
Dear [Loan Officer/Bank Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a loan. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship]. [He/She/They] is responsible and financially stable.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: University Admission
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear [Admissions Committee Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant Name] for admission to your university. As [Applicant Name]’s [Your Role – e.g., teacher, counselor], I have seen [him/her/their] excel. [He/She/They] is intelligent, dedicated, and possesses a strong work ethic.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Professional License Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]
[Date]
[Licensing Board Name]
[Board Address]
Dear [Licensing Board Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant Name] for a [Professional License Type] license. I have known [Applicant Name] for [Number] years in a professional capacity. [He/She/They] has proven to be highly competent and ethical.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, a well-written character reference letter can make a significant difference in various situations. By using these examples as a guide, tailoring the content to the specific needs, and providing honest and specific examples, you can craft a compelling letter that helps the applicant achieve their goals. Remember to proofread carefully before submitting the letter to ensure accuracy and professionalism.
