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Character Reference Letter Examples and Writing Tips

What Is a Character Reference?

What to include in a character reference letter, character reference letter example, more reference letter examples, tips for writing a personal reference letter, what to do when you need references, whom to ask for a character reference, tips for requesting a character reference.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

Job candidates, students, and even apartment hunters may need to supply a character reference letter to their would-be employer, program, or landlord.

Do you need to write a character reference or ask someone to write one for you? If it’s something you haven’t done before, getting some pointers and looking at sample letters may help.

Review sample reference letters and tips for writing and requesting character references.

A  character reference  (also known as a  personal reference ) is a letter written by someone who knows the candidate and can speak to their character and abilities. Unlike with  professional references , the person writing the reference is generally not an employer.

When asked to write a character reference, only agree if you can speak positively about the candidate's personality and work ethic.

Once you've agreed, be sure to include a few key elements in your letter:

• First, state your relationship with the person requesting the letter and mention how long you have known them.
• The body of your letter should focus on one or two of the candidate’s strongest qualities or skills that you think will make them stand out in the job search or other application process. 
• Try to support each claim you make about the person with a specific example.
• At the end of the letter, provide any contact information that you feel comfortable sharing with the recipient.

Lastly, be sure to meticulously edit your letter before sending it.

This is a character reference letter sample.  Download the letter template  (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Character Reference Letter Example (Text Version)

John Smith 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555 555-5555 jsmith@email.com

June 17, 2023

Jane Kiel Director, Human Resources Anytown Riding Institute 123 Business Road Anytown, CA 54321

Dear Ms. Kiel,

I have known Jane Doe in a variety of capacities for many years. She has been my daughter's riding instructor for the past several years. In addition, she is my partner in a small business where she is responsible for writing and editing articles and website content.

Jane is efficient, detail-oriented, and extremely competent. She often successfully finishes a task well before the deadline. She is very organized and never misses a deadline or forgets an assignment.

Jane also has an excellent rapport with people of all ages. She has taught riding to both young children and the elderly—and to every age in between. Her excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) allow her to connect with all kinds of people and inspire them to put forth their best effort.

In summary, I highly recommend Jane for any position or endeavor that she may seek to pursue. She will be a valuable asset to any organization.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Review more  reference letter samples  for a variety of circumstances to get started on your own letter.

Think before saying yes. Before agreeing to write a character reference letter, be sure you can write one that is positive and honest. If you cannot, it is better to say no; this will give the person a chance to ask someone who can write a stronger letter.

If you do not want to explain your reason for saying no in detail, you can simply say, “I don’t feel I am qualified to write a letter on your behalf.” Here's  how to decline a request for a reference .

Should you choose to write the letter, you should:

• Request information:  If you decide to write the letter, make sure you have all the information you need. In particular, make sure you know what the letter is for (whether it is for a particular job, a college application, etc.), how to submit it, and when it is due. You might also ask the person if they have a resume, CV, or other document listing their skills and experiences that you can use to help write the letter.
• Be specific:  In your letter, focus on two or three specific qualities or abilities the person has that make them a good fit for the job or school.
• Research the position:  Look at the job listing or the school website for a sense of the qualities the employer or school might be looking for. Provide an example of a time the person demonstrated each of these qualities.
• Provide contact information:  Provide some form of contact information so the employer or organization can reach you with further questions.
• Use business letter format:  If you are sending the letter by mail, use  business letter format  when writing your letter. Include the contact information of the employer at the top, the date, and your contact information. Conclude with a handwritten signature and your typed signature underneath. If you send an email reference letter, you do not have to use this format.
• Proofread and edit:  Be sure to thoroughly edit your letter so it is polished and professional. Ask a friend or family member to read over the letter before you send it.

Make sure your letter is thorough, but not too long. Three to five paragraphs is enough, and the letter certainly should not be longer than one page. 

There are a number of situations in which you may need to ask someone to write a character reference for you. Perhaps you don't have any  professional references  you can use because you're looking for your first job or have been out of the workforce for a while.

Or maybe you're concerned your current employer won't give you a positive reference. Even if you have good professional references, some employers request character references in addition to  letters of recommendation  because they want to get a sense of a potential employee's personality. 

You may also need a character reference when you're applying for a loan from the bank, renting an apartment, or applying to schools. A reference gives the employer, school, landlord, or bank a vote of confidence in the candidate.

If you're the one who needs a character reference, below is some helpful information about whom you should ask for help and how to go about doing it.

Whom should you  ask to provide a personal reference  for you? Ask someone you know personally who can speak to your character and abilities.

Neighbors and acquaintances may be willing to write a reference for you. Business acquaintances, professors and academic advisors, customers, and vendors can also make good references. You may even be able to  use a friend as a reference  for employment.

If you belong to or volunteer for any organizations, consider using leaders or other members of the group as personal references. Have you participated in the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, or a similar organization? Did you play school sports? Do you belong to a church group? Ask your group leader or coach to write a personal letter of reference for you. If you've babysat, dog-sat, or shoveled snow, ask the people you worked for if they will write a reference letter for you.

Whomever you ask, be sure to send the writer a  thank you note  afterward. Be sure to emphasize how much you appreciate their taking the time to write you a reference.

Select Someone Who Knows You Well

Think carefully about whom you want to  ask to write a reference for you . Make sure you pick someone who knows you well enough to offer insight into your personality. Pick someone you think will speak positively about you or someone you know has positive anecdotes to share about you. You can ask a family member, friend, or neighbor. You can also ask a teacher, advisor, volunteer leader, coach, pastor, or business acquaintance.

When to Ask

Be sure to ask your references as early as possible so they have time to write the letter. Offer to send them your resume or to update them on your life if they would like some more information, and make sure they know the deadline by which their reference needs to be received.

Provide the Details

It’s also a good idea to provide them with information about the job postings or programs you are applying for so they can discuss how your character and personality will make you a good candidate for these positions.

Say Thank You

Afterward, send them a  thank-you note  to show your appreciation.

Key Takeaways

• A character reference is a letter written by someone who knows the candidate and can speak to their abilities.
• Ask someone who can speak to your character to provide a reference for you.
• Request your reference as early as possible so the person has plenty of lead time to write the letter.
• Send a thank-you note to show your appreciation for the recommendation.

CareerOneStop. " References ."

Character Reference Letter 101 (Sample Template Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

We are all familiar with the traditional reference letter (often referred to as a letter of recommendation ). It is an employer’s note of your professional conduct.

While not always in letter form, providing professional references is a key component of any job application.

A lesser known variety of the reference paradigm is the character reference letter.

I can hear the sighs abound.

“Another reference letter? I have already spoken to every employer I have ever had. I have made a list of every address I’ve lived at and every landlord. Who do they want to hear from this time, the Queen of England?”

No one expects to hear from the Queen, though if you think you can get her on the phone it surely wouldn’t hurt.

The character reference is actually the least painful of all references. For once, you have significant control. The Queen need not make an appearance.

What Is A Character Reference Letter?

A character reference letter is written by someone who knows you personally. Instead of highlighting your professional skills and qualities, this letter is meant to speak to your personal qualities.

These are at least equal in importance, if not significantly more important.

You can teach skills on the job. Teaching character is a whole other animal.

When Are Character Reference Letters Used?

An employer can ask for a character reference at any time, but there are certain situations in which you should provide one independent of being asked.

A character reference is a great way to bolster an otherwise weak application. If you have little job experience or your professional references are merely good, a character reference can be the boost you need to land your job of choice. They are also useful if you will be working with a particular set of people, such as children or the elderly, and do not have work experience in their field. A note about your abilities and experiences working with this demographic may be your golden ticket.

What Should Be Included In Your Character Reference

A character reference should include:

• Overview of how the writer knows you
• A listing of your positive characteristics with examples
• A general recommendation
• Contact details

You should mention these elements to your reference writer. It is especially important that you ask them to include examples.

A sentence that says “Tom is trustworthy” is not nearly as strong a recommendation as sharing a story about “that time Tom returned a suitcase of money he found in the street its rightful owner.”

Don’t worry – the story doesn’t need to be quite so heroic. Something simple, but illustrative will do the trick.

Who To Ask For A Reference Letter

Your reference letter should be written by someone who knows you well.

However, you want to avoid family members. As tempted as you are to call your mom, how valuable will her glowing recommendation really be?

A distant relative will work in a pinch, but better to choose a family friend or someone you’ve worked with in an informal capacity.

A volunteer supervisor, neighborhood parent for whom you have babysat, or close friend of many years would be excellent choices.

Best Tips for How to Ask for a Character Reference Letter

1. be gracious.

It is a little known fact that people generally like to help each other out. Asking for help can be awkward, but is usually well received. This is especially true if the person you are speaking to likes you.

We highly suggest you choose someone who likes you to write your character reference letter. To be gracious is to be courteous, kind, and pleasant. These are always qualities to strive for, but especially so when asking for a favor.

2. Be Specific

Make sure that your reference writer knows the specifics of their mission.

• When will you need it to be complete?
• Where should they send it?
• What is the job for which you are applying?
• What attributes would you especially like them to speak to?

The more specific your request, the easier the task at hand. You are already asking a favor, so you should make your writer’s task as straightforward and easy to accomplish as possible.

3. Explain Your Choice

There is no greater motivator to help someone than a heartfelt explanation of why they are the best person for the job.

Explain to your writer why you have come to them and why you feel they are in a particularly good position to write your character reference.

As an aside, a tiny bit of ego stroking never hurt anyone. Just don’t lay it on too thick.

Tips On How to Write a Character Reference Letter

1. provide details about how you know the candidate.

The very first part of your letter should show the employer that you are indeed a trustworthy source of information.

• How long have you known the candidate, and in what capacity?
• What makes you a good character reference?

If your history with the candidate does not make you an ideal reference, you should advice them to look elsewhere for their letter.

2. Get the Details of the Position

If you are writing the letter for a specific position, make sure to get the details and write your reference with the skills needed in mind.

A paragraph about the candidate’s creativity might be less relevant if they are applying to can avocados. Avocado canning is not a particularity creative endeavor, unless perhaps you know something about avocados that we have missed. Attention to detail, in this case, would be more appropriate.

If the job involves working with a specific group of people, such as children or the elderly, than a comment relating to their interactions with this group may go a long way towards helping them get the job.

3. Ask the Candidate What They’d Like to See

This is especially important when writing a general character references. Without a job description to guide you , there are innumerable qualities that can be highlighted in your letter.

Ideally, the candidate should know the types of positions for which they will be applying. This can help them to guide your emphasis towards the most appropriate and important qualities.

Even if your letter is for a specific job, you should ask the candidate what they’d like to see. Sometimes the most important qualities are not obvious from a job description, but may have come through in an interview. In this case, the candidate should be able to provide additional information.

4. Provide Examples

A picture is worth a thousand words. The same is true of an example. As mentioned, the way to drive home an important quality or characteristics that your candidate possesses is to show this quality in action.

Provide examples for your most important points. These need not be full-blown narratives. Simple examples will suffice.

5. Keep It Short

Your character reference letter should not be multiple pages long. One page is more than enough. Three paragraphs will be plenty in most cases.

Character Reference Letter Sample Template

Below, please find an example of a good character reference letter you can use as a template.

To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing to recommend Greg Sterling for any position to which he might apply. I have had the pleasure of knowing Greg for the last decade. I became Greg’s youth soccer coach when he was eight years old and he has since become my right-hand man on the field. Greg was a sincere, kind, and generous kid. He has since grown into a mature, responsible young man.

Greg has been volunteering as assistant coach for the past two years. He is excellent with the young players. He navigates their development, both in terms of practical skills and in terms of character, with the maturity of someone twice his age. He is fair, but also has high standards. He is the first to commend one of the boys for a job well done, and also the first to reprimand poor behavior. Teasing among our players has stopped since they have had Greg as a role model and leader.

Working with youth sports has also given Greg the opportunity to develop customer service skills . He has truly excelled. One parent arrived on the field scathing over his child being sat on the bench for the majority of the game, and left ten minutes later apologizing. Greg has a way with people and this shines through in all that he does.

Greg would be an asset to any company and to any team. I highly recommend Greg Sterling for any position to which he might apply. Feel free to contact me at xxx-xxx-xxxx for additional information.

Regards, David Crone

Putting It All Together

A character reference is your time to shine. You control who writes it and can guide the writer towards the best possible letter for the position you hope to land.

In a way, this is even better than getting the Queen on the phone. She may be a reputable source, but she is just as likely to report the bad as the good.

You can easily ensure that your character reference letter is all good. This is why many applicants present a character letter without having been asked for one. It never hurts to have one more tool in your job hunting toolbox.

If you are looking for more information about recommendation letters instead, please check out our article Letter or Recommendation 101 !

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How To Write A Character Reference Letter For Someone

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Have you been asked to write a character reference letter for someone you know who is currently seeking employment?

If you have, then you may be wondering exactly what goes into such a letter and what importance it plays in the job candidate's interview process.

Well, that’s exactly what we will cover in this article! Read this piece from top to bottom or simply jump to the specific section you’re interested in:

What Is A Character Reference Letter?

How to write a character reference letter, what to include in the character reference letter, when should a character reference letter be submitted, 5+ examples of a character reference letter, final thoughts on reference letters.

A character reference letter is a document that is written by someone who knows the job candidate well and can attest to their character. This type of letter is usually written by a friend, family member, or someone close to the job candidate.

The character reference letter is important because it gives the employer an idea of what kind of person the job candidate is, outside of their professional qualifications.

An employer may request a character reference letter to get a better sense of who the job candidate is as a person. This type of letter can be very helpful in the decision-making process, as it can provide insight into the job candidate's character that may not be apparent from their resume or professional qualifications alone.

So, you’ve been assigned the very important task of writing a reference letter. Where to start?

For starters, you should:

#1 Add our contact information

Right below the date, add your full name, the company you work for, your e-mail, and your phone number. Once you’ve done that, then you will have to…

#2 Properly address the letter

To begin, avoid using the traditional “To whom it may concern”. That’s way too impersonal! Instead, ask the candidate the name of the person who will be receiving the letter.

If they don’t have a name, then assign the letter to the team at the company the candidate is applying for, for example: “ To the Marketing Team at BlueVista ”, or “ To the Software Engineering team at Techpulse ”.

#3 Introduce yourself and explain your relationship with the candidate

Explain where you know the candidate from and for how long you’ve known them.

For example:

My name is Roseanna Vang, and I am the Marketing Director at BitCode. I had the pleasure of working with Eleanor Thomas throughout my time as a Senior Marketing Manager at Nexlab in 2019. Eleanor was the Head of Marketing and my direct supervisor at the time.

Be thorough about the context in which you’ve known the candidate. For instance, in the example above, we learn that:

• Roseanna was under Eleanor’s supervision and is now the Marketing Director, meaning Eleanor’s mentorship might have helped her grow and progress;
• Eleanor has maintained a good relationship with her subordinates, given one of them would be open enough to write them a reference letter.

Let’s take another example from someone who hasn’t worked with the candidate:

My name is Jean Mcleod and I am a Senior Software Engineer at Ecotech. Angelo Bradshaw and I studied together at UCLA from 2010 to 2014 while undertaking a Computer Science degree. During that time, we have worked closely together on multiple class projects and extra-curricular activities.

Here’s what we learned from the example above:

• Jean probably considers Angelo a reliable person, as they have worked together on multiple class projects;
• Angelo is driven to learn new things, given his interest in joining extra-curricular activities.

See? Details matter!

Once you’ve given the context, then you will:

#4 Bring in all the good stuff

Bring in all the positive things you have to say for this candidate. If you can, try bringing in measurable results, too!

Let’s pick where we left off on the examples we used above.

I have witnessed first-hand Eleanor’s commitment and dedication to building brand awareness at Nexlab. During the time we have worked together, Eleanor was in charge of leading a creative team of 12 professionals responsible for crafting engaging and strategic marketing campaigns. For the second half of 2019, Eleanor spearheaded the campaign launch of a new foundation designed to perfectly blend with all skin colors. The marketing team developed a user-generated content strategy for TikTok and Instagram, leveraging customers' different skin tones to showcase the product’s efficiency. Over 20K leads entered our waiting list to purchase the product first-hand, and nearly 10% converted within the first week of the product launch! Elanor’s leadership and organization skills were essential to sustain a deliverable timeframe for the campaign launch. She held regular 1:1s with everyone on the team to keep track of the campaign status and designed a project management board so everyone would be on the same page.

Notice how, in this case, the reader is presented with a challenge Eleanor had to face. Then, they learned about the steps she took and the measurable outcomes. Finally, they learn about what skills were essential for Eleanor’s success in facing this challenge.

Now, let’s see how this framework could be applied to our second example:

During our final year capstone project, Angelo and I faced a significant challenge in developing a scalable web application for a nonprofit organization. The application struggled with load management during peak times, causing frequent downtimes and hindering the nonprofit's mission. Angelo stepped forward to lead the resolution of these performance issues, recognizing the need for a more robust solution to support the organization's goals effectively. Angelo proposed and led the transition to a microservices architecture, a strategy aimed at enhancing the application's scalability and performance. By breaking down the monolithic system into smaller, independently scalable services, he meticulously orchestrated the redesign over two months. This period involved intensive coding sessions, careful deployment of new services, and rigorous testing to ensure the application's stability and efficiency, demonstrating Angelo's commitment to finding a sustainable solution. The transformation Angelo spearheaded not only salvaged our capstone project but also significantly benefited the nonprofit organization, tripling the application's user capacity and slashing load times by 70%. This overhaul led to increased user engagement and allowed the nonprofit to expand its services. Angelo's leadership, technical acumen, and problem-solving skills were pivotal in achieving these results, illustrating his ability to deliver under pressure and contribute meaningfully to complex projects.

Again, the reader is presented with a challenge, a step-by-step guide to the resolution of the challenge, and a measurable result!

#5 Craft a statement of recommendation

Reinforce the candidate’s value and how they can make a great addition to the team.

Here’s what the closing statement could look like for each of the examples above:

I am convinced that Eleanor’s creative and strategic thinking, combined with her knack for leadership, will serve as a valuable asset to your team.

I am confident that Angelo's proficiency in software engineering, combined with his exceptional problem-solving abilities, makes him an invaluable asset to any team. His commitment to excellence and his ability to lead through challenges are qualities that I have admired and learned from throughout our time at UCLA.

#6 Close with your contact information

Finally, put yourself at the reader’s disposal to provide any further information on the candidate! Here’s how:

Should you wish to discuss or gain any further insights into Eleanor’s time at Nexlab, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at 555-555-555 or [email protected] .

If you need any further details about Angelo’s achievements and abilities, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 555-555-555 or [email protected] .

The Anatomy Of A Character Reference Letter

Now, let’s recap and break that down into an illustration!

When writing a character reference letter, focus on the positive qualities of the person you are writing about. Try to provide specific examples of times when you have seen these positive qualities in action.

Also, keep the letter concise and to the point. The character reference letter is not the place to go into detail about the person's entire life story.

Here are some things you may want to include in a reference letter:

• How long you have known the person
• In what capacity you have known them
• What positive qualities you have observed in them
• Specific examples of times when you have seen these qualities in action
• Why do you believe they would be a good fit for the job they are applying for
• Your contact information in case the employer has any further questions

Pro Tip: If you have been asked to write a character reference letter, it is a good idea to ask the person you are writing it for if there is anything specific they would like you to include. This will help ensure that your letter hits all the key points that the employer is looking for.

The completed letter should be submitted along with the job candidate's other application materials . Usually, the letter will be sent directly to the employer by the person who is writing it.

If you have been asked to write a character reference letter but are not sure how to go about it, the following examples will help you get started.

Below are five examples of outlines you can use for inspiration. Remember to add your contact information in the header of the letter so that the employer can easily get in touch with you if they have any further questions.

Character Reference Example #1: February 12th, 2024 Nicholas Shaw Edutech | [email protected] | 555-555-555 Dear Will Holt, I am writing to strongly endorse Hirra Shah for the Financial Analyst position she is keenly pursuing. Over the past 5 years, my association with Hirra, both professionally and personally, has allowed me to witness her unwavering dedication, integrity, and astute analytical skills. In her role as a Financial Analyst with Edutech, Hirra has consistently exhibited a commendable work ethic, complemented by her keen attention to financial intricacies. She played a pivotal role in identifying and rectifying cost inefficiencies, resulting in an annual savings of 15% for our department. Furthermore, her in-depth analysis and forecasting techniques led to a 20% increase in ROI for our key investment projects in the past year. Beyond her technical prowess, what distinguishes Hirra is her genuine commitment to team collaboration and her ability to explain complex financial concepts in a comprehensible manner. This blend of analytical acumen and interpersonal skills makes her a standout financial professional. I am genuinely confident that Hirra Shah will be a significant asset to your team, driving both efficiency and innovation. Should you wish to further discuss or gain insights into Hirra's competencies and achievements, please do not hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] Warm regards, Nicholas Shaw

Character Reference Example #2: February 12th, 2024 Gloria Wilson DataSphere | [email protected] | 555-555-555 Dear Cecilia Luna, I am writing to strongly recommend Keisha Jones for the Human Resources position she is pursuing. I have had the privilege of working alongside Keisha for the past 5 years. Throughout this period, Keisha has consistently embodied the principles of professionalism, empathy, and dedication. In her previous HR role, Keisha was instrumental in revamping our recruitment process, resulting in a 40% decrease in time-to-hire and a 20% increase in new hire retention during her first year. Her meticulous attention to detail combined with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics ensures that every team member feels acknowledged and empowered. Keisha's true strength lies in her ability to mediate and manage interpersonal relationships within the workplace. With a knack for problem-solving, she reduced internal conflicts by 60% through the initiation of team-building activities and open dialogue sessions. Her genuine compassion, paired with her sharp insight into strategic planning, makes her a valuable asset in any HR setting. I wholeheartedly believe that Keisha Jones would be an outstanding addition to your HR team, bringing with her the expertise and soft skills essential for the role. If you need further details or wish to discuss Keisha's achievements and abilities, please don't hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] . Warm regards, Gloria Wilson

Character Reference Example #3: February 12th, 2024 Marnie Reid AI Optima | [email protected] | 555-555-555 Dear Rafael Hall, I am writing to endorse Mark Thompson for the Account Manager position at CloudFrontier. Over the past 5 years, I have worked closely with Mark in both professional and personal environments, and I have been consistently impressed with his proficiency, dedication, and aptitude in managing accounts. Mark possesses a rare blend of technical skills, interpersonal skills, and client-centric dedication. In his role as an Account Manager with our company, he has seamlessly balanced client needs with organizational goals, consistently exceeding both client and company expectations. His proactive approach led to a 30% increase in client retention and a 25% growth in upsell opportunities during his time at AI Optima. Furthermore, Mark's natural ability to establish trust and build lasting relationships positions him as a standout in the realm of account management. He possesses the intrinsic ability to understand client needs, foresee challenges, and proactively offer solutions, ensuring the client's trust is never compromised. I am confident that Mark Thompson will be an invaluable asset to your team and bring tangible results in the Account Manager role. If you wish to discuss further or require additional insights into Mark's competencies, please do not hesitate to connect with me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] . Warm regards, Marnie Reid

Character Reference Example #4: February 12th, 2024 Simon Kelley Lumiar Elementary School | [email protected] | 555-555-555 Dear Minna Rigs, I am writing to recommend Tessa Stafford for the teaching position she is pursuing at Bright Education. Having known Tessa for the past 5 years, I've observed her in various capacities, both in professional educational settings and outside of them. Tessa consistently radiates attributes of patience, innovation, and an unwavering passion for education. In her teaching role at our school, Tessa not only showcased an excellent command over her subject matter but also demonstrated an innate ability to understand and cater to the unique needs of each student. Under her guidance, her class witnessed a remarkable 25% improvement in standardized test scores, and she successfully bridged learning gaps for underperforming students, leading to an 80% pass rate improvement for that specific group within a year. What truly distinguishes Tessa is her holistic approach to teaching. Beyond just academics, she instills in her students critical life values, resilience, and curiosity. Her innovative teaching methods, combined with her genuine care for students' well-being, position her as an educator par excellence. I am confident that with Tessa Stafford joining your team, your institution will not only achieve academic excellence but also nurture well-rounded individuals. For further discussion or additional information regarding Tessa's abilities and achievements, please do not hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] . Warm regards, Simon Kelley

Character Reference Example #5:  February 12th, 2024 Jenna Dunn Salute Medical Care | [email protected] | 555-555-555 Dear Owen Kelin, I am writing to recommend Leroy Lucero for the nursing position he is seeking at MedClin. Over the past 5 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside Leroy and observing his dedication, compassion, and outstanding clinical abilities. In his nursing role at our facility, Leroy has consistently demonstrated exemplary patient care, often going above and beyond his duties. His diligence and thorough approach have directly contributed to a 20% reduction in patient recovery times within his care ward. Furthermore, under his leadership, patient satisfaction scores in his department increased by 15%, showcasing his commitment to ensuring patients feel cared for and heard. Beyond his technical proficiency, what truly distinguishes Leroy is his deep empathy and ability to connect with patients of all backgrounds. He has this innate talent of blending analytical thinking with a heartfelt commitment to his patients' well-being. Such qualities not only make him an exceptional nurse but also an essential team member in any medical setting. I am confident that with Leroy Lucero as part of your team, your facility will witness enhanced patient care and a strengthened nursing department. For additional insights or to discuss Leroy's achievements and skills further, please don't hesitate to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected] . Warm regards, Jenna Dunn

Notice how all of these examples share a few common traits.

First, they speak to the person's abilities as a professional, using measurable outcomes when possible. This allows the hiring manager to see the specific value they bring to the table as an employee.

Second, they speak to the person's character and values. This allows the hiring team to gauge the cultural fit for this person so they can feel confident they'd not only blend in but actively add to the company's culture.

Third, they use specific examples to define each. They don't just say something like, “Leroy offers exemplary patient care.” They go beyond that to provide examples of how that exemplary care translates in the workplace ( “His diligence and thorough approach have directly contributed to a 20% reduction in patient recovery times within his care ward.” ).

Pro Tip:  Want to level up your character letters without spending a bunch of extra time? Leverage AI! Tools like Hubspot's Paragraph Writer help remove the burden of starting with a blank page. Use them to take care of 80% of the baseline content so you can bring 100% of your energy to personalize your reference letter and add your magic touch!

A character reference letter can significantly increase a job candidate's chances of getting hired . By taking the time to write a thoughtful and well-written letter, you can help your friend or colleague get the job they're applying for.

Keep the following tips in mind when writing a character reference letter:

• Be sure to include how long you have known the person
• Mention what capacity you have known them in
• Include an example of their positive character traits
• Explain why you believe they would be a good fit for the job (include measurable metrics and outcomes if you can!)
• Provide your contact information in case the employer has any questions
• Submit the letter along with the job candidate's other application materials

When in doubt, the letter you write should be positive and always truthful. With these tips in mind, you'll be on your way to writing a great character reference letter in no time!

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Character references: 4 tips for a successful recommendation letter

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What are character references?

Should I include character references on a resume?

Who can provide a character reference?

How to choose a character reference, 4 reasons character references are important, how to write a character reference letter, extra tips for getting a good character reference, choose references wisely.

After you nail your job interview, you might send a follow-up email and continue researching the company to get up to speed. 

While you wait on an answer, the hiring manager still has some work to do. They might ask you for references to contact for objective opinions about your experience, skill set, and personality. These could be either professional references or character references.

While both types of references speak to your capabilities and professional potential, they offer slightly different perspectives. Professional references consider your performance at previous jobs, and character references speak more to your personality and character traits.

Choosing a character reference requires the same careful attention as the rest of your job search process . Before reaching out to someone in your life, let’s explore the value of a character reference, what hiring managers are looking for, and what they can expect. 

A character reference, also known as a personal reference, is a person who can speak about your reputation, personality, and character when you’re applying for a job. They’re different from professional references, who can confirm your job-specific professional knowledge and skills. 

Imagine that you’re applying for a teaching position. A professional reference, like a previous manager, can confirm your ability to manage a classroom, create engaging and effective lesson plans, and communicate concepts that students understand. That information will tell a hiring manager whether you can complete your job tasks effectively. 

A character reference, like a mentor or community leader, can speak to your ethical values, sense of purpose, and life goals. The information a character reference provides speaks to important transferable soft skills , like your communication skills and teamwork skills , that let a hiring manager know if you’ll fit into the company culture and organizational vision.

Should I include character references on a resume? 

You don’t have to put character references on your resume unless the application specifically asks you to, which is rare. Hiring managers want resumes to show whether you have the skills, experience, and know-how that match the roles and responsibilities of the job. Based on that assessment alone, they’ll decide to extend a job interview invitation. 

Individual hiring managers are more likely to request professional and character references during the final stages of the interview process. They want to confirm what they already know and check that you are who you say you are. 

Asking for character references is most common when you don’t already have a lot of work experience or are applying for a job that requires strong character traits, like honesty or integrity. If a hiring manager doesn’t specify what type of reference they want from you, they’re likely asking for a professional reference, not a character reference. Ask them to clarify if you’re unsure. 

Even if you’ve never been asked to provide a reference before, it’s good to prepare a list of potential professional and character references while you’re applying for jobs. That way, if a potential employer asks for any kind of reference, you already know who to reach out to.

Someone who knows you well outside of work can provide a character reference. 

Remember that hiring managers might be more likely to trust the opinion of someone who isn’t emotionally close to you. Family members, family friends, and close friends may be able to speak highly of you, but their opinions likely lack the impartiality hiring managers seek. 

Take some time to write a list of people who can speak genuinely about your positive attributes based on their personal experiences with you. Think of people who you know are comfortable speaking professionally. And if you can, choose someone based on the specificities of the job. 

For example, if you’re applying for a managerial position that requires strong people management skills and leadership qualities, you want to choose someone who has seen you lead or make important decisions, like a community service coordinator or career coach . 

Here are some examples of character references a hiring manager will trust:

• An academic advisor, professor, tutor, or teaching assistant
• A career or life coach
• A career counselor, mentor, or sponsor
• Community leaders
• Colleagues, coworkers, or peers who know you on a personal level

Write a shortlist of potential character references and narrow it down from there. You might want to reach out to a few different people in case someone says no or isn’t available.

A good character reference could be the last step to landing your dream job, so it’s important to choose the right person and communicate with them effectively. Here are a few tips to get character references that persuade recruiters you’re the right candidate:

Pick someone trustworthy: Carefully think about the people you trust who’ve spent significant time with you. Just because someone has witnessed your skills doesn’t mean they’ll be a good reference. You should choose a person who likes you and will tell the truth when a hiring manager asks for their input. 

Keep it formal: Pick someone who has experience giving recommendations or can speak about you in a professional tone. Even if your relationship with them is casual, the reference should be professional. Make this clear when you’re approaching the person.

Consider the timing: Choose a person who has the time and energy to act as a reference. Give them a heads-up on when to expect an email or phone call from a hiring manager.

You might also have to ask them to write a letter of reference, so give them enough time to do so before you have to send it to your prospective employer. And if you know you’re starting a job hunt, ask someone to be a reference before you even apply so they can prepare accordingly.

Choosing professional references is usually straightforward. You’ll most likely include supervisors from your most recent job who can speak about your current skill level and experience. But picking the right character references may not be as obvious. You’re looking at a broader pool of people, and there isn’t always a singular, clear choice.

Understanding what hiring managers are looking for and what character references should provide is a good place to start. Here are some ways these references contribute to the hiring process:

Describe your well-roundedness

Professional references from managers and supervisors provide valuable information about how effectively you work, but might not always describe your personality in-depth. A character reference from a close peer, client, or mentor gives stronger insight into the values and personality traits that could make you a fit within a company culture or mission.

Focus on soft skills

Nearly 90% of hiring managers say that hires that didn’t work out lacked important soft skills . If they ask for a character reference, they want to be extra sure that you have the interpersonal skills and personality to excel and fit into the team dynamic . 

Back intuition with reputation

First impressions matter, but even the most experienced hiring manager can misjudge someone’s character. Most people only need 1/10th of a second to judge someone based on appearance , and interview biases can cloud their immediate thoughts.

A personal reference letter could disprove a hiring manager’s negative impression or confirm they can trust their gut if they already think you’re the right candidate.

Offer an alternative to professional references

A potential employer may ask for more than one employment reference, especially if you don’t have a lot of work experience or can’t offer a professional reference. If you’re brand new to the workforce, quit your previous job , or are returning to work after a long career gap , a character reference is a good alternative option to provide.

Whether you’re writing a character reference or asking someone to write one for you, it should fit the same general rules of any other communication at work: short, informative, and cordial. 

Consider breaking the letter of reference down into three clear sections:

Introduction: Start with a brief introduction that explains the relationship between the applicant and the reference. Describe the nature of the relationship and how and when it started.

Explanation: Provide specific experiences that demonstrate positive skills and personality traits. Be sure to include the types of soft skills the job description asks for, and skip ones that aren’t as relevant to save space. 

Sign off: Provide contact details like an email, phone number, and the time of day a hiring manager can reach out if they have further questions. 

Here’s an example of a reference letter:

Dear [hiring manager’s name], 

I hope you’re well! Thanks for giving me the opportunity to talk about Margaret. 

I’ve been managing our community garden since 2012, and I met Margaret in 2017 when she started volunteering there. Since then, we’ve worked together nearly every weekend, growing vegetables and distributing them to local families in need. 

Margaret is an inspiring person. She leads with kindness, curiosity, and empathy and does everything with a smile. She’s a fantastic problem-solver as well. One summer, our garden had a bug infestation, and Margaret spent a weekend researching the problem and called upon the community to help get rid of the pests. She’s a valuable member of our group and neighborhood as a whole. 

I have no doubts about recommending her. Any team will be lucky to have someone with her work ethic and collaborative spirit. 

Please let me know if you have any further questions. You can call me on my cell phone anytime: [cell number]. 

Best regards, 

[Your name] 

A hiring manager might ask you for a reference for a specific position, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put in the effort beforehand. Here’s how to ask for a character reference and get a successful recommendation:

Be proactive: Ask for a letter of reference when you leave a job so you don’t have to do it later. You could request a professional recommendation, a character reference, or a more informal recommendation on your LinkedIn profile .

If you do give a pre-written letter to a hiring manager, inform the reference beforehand, confirm their contact information, and ask for a quick update that better reflects the job description. 

Prep your reference: Tell your character reference some key elements of the job you’re applying for, including the skills, experiences, and knowledge that your potential employer wants to see. If you can, remind them of specific experiences that might be beneficial to share.

Provide them with a template: If you have a specific type of letter in mind, share it with your reference. Send them tips for writing a professional email , or give them a character reference template to simplify the process.

They’ll appreciate the extra help if they don't have much experience writing professional letters.

Show gratitude: Taking the time to write a reference letter or answer a phone call is a kind gesture. Your reference is taking time out of their day to help you. Be sure to show your appreciation with a thank you note or personal phone call.

Character references are just one part of the job search, but they’re a key piece of the puzzle. A good character reference can assert your positive reputation, provide valuable insights about your personality, and convince a hiring manager that they’re making the right choice by hiring you. 

Think carefully about who can give the best recommendation for the job, coach them on what your potential employer is looking for, and let them support you in the job search. If you choose well and provide them with the right tools and resources, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job. 

Ace your job search

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

A quick guide on how to list references on a resume

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How to Write a Compelling Character Reference (Example & Guide for 2023)

What is a character reference letter?

Who to ask for a character reference letter, how to write a compelling character reference letter, tips and tricks, example of a character reference letter.

When you are applying for a job, there are various documents that can help you out more further in the hiring process.

Most candidates stick to only sending out their CV , and sometimes add in their cover letter , and that is perfectly fine.

However, there are some additional documents that the employer might ask you to provide to get a better understanding of who you are.

One of the most common additional documents for your application is a character reference.

You might ask yourself various questions about that, and we are here to help you.

In this article, we are going to find the answers to the following questions:

• How to write a character reference letter?

And we are going to wrap this topic up with some great tips and tricks to help you out, as long as a great example of character reference letter to get you started on your own.

So, if you are ready to learn more about the reference letters and how to use them correctly, let’s dive in.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your CV here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Before we get any further, it is essential that you understand what exactly is a character reference letter.

A character reference letter is a document which is often used in job applications as a testament to the candidate’s personal qualities.

Typically, your character reference letter would not necessarily be written by someone who you have worked professionally with. It is much more important that the person can talk about your abilities and character.

The goal of the character reference letter is for the employer to get an insight into your personality and traits, and based on that to determine whether you would be a good fit for their company.

When deciding who to ask for a character reference letter, you can’t just ask anybody.

You need to consider only people who know you well enough to provide a realistic and positive evaluation of your personal traits.

Some people who you can consider for writing your character reference letter are:

• Co-volunteer
• Volunteer leader
• Client of yours
• Customer of yours
• Business acquaintance
• Professor of yours
• Academic advisor
• Mentor of yours
• Fellow student
• Neighbour of yours
• Friend of yours

As you can see from that list, you should avoid choosing a family member, as such character reference letters are usually not taken seriously from employers.

To help the person who you have selected for a reference prepare better your letter, you can provide them with the job description of the job you are applying for, as well as your up-to-date CV .

Now, let’s back up a bit, and have a look at a different scenario – someone asking you to write a compelling character reference letter for them.

If you are up to the task, you need to know how to do this right, and help your fellow in the best way possible.

To write a compelling character reference letter, you need to follow just five simple steps.

Explain your relationship to the candidate

The first thing you need to do when writing a character reference letter is show the employer how you know the candidate.

No matter what your relationship is, make sure you provide some detail, so that the employer knows that you really know each other, and that you have some insight into the candidate’s personality.

Share how long you have known the candidate

After sharing your relationship with the candidate, you would want to go a little further into detail.

What you need to share is how long you have known the candidate, as that only proves the credibility of anything you have to same about them.

Highlight positive personal qualities of the candidate and back them up with specific examples

Once you have provided the employer with enough detail about your relationship with the candidate, it is time to share some of your insight.

That’s the place where you want to show the employer that the candidate would be a great fit to their company.

To do so, make sure you include at least three personal qualities that would help the employer better understand the candidate, and why they can benefit the company.

These are qualities can be any of these, as well as any other soft skills :

• Communication skills
• Leadership abilities
• Positive attitude
• Commitment to quality

Whatever you decide to list as positive qualities of the candidate, make sure you also back up your words with some specific examples in your experience with the candidate.

Wrap it up with a statement of recommendation and share your contact details

Once you have done all that, it is time to simply wrap up your character reference letter.

To do so right, you need just two things:

• State that you recommend the candidate for the position they are applying for
• List at least two pieces of contact information, like your phone number and email address

After you know who to ask for a reference letter, and how to write one, if someone asks you, let’s have a look at some tips and tricks that would help you either way:

• Keep the character reference letter positive – that is absolutely not the place for listing someone’s shortcomings. The writer of the reference should always be someone who can speak only to the candidate’s best qualities
• Avoid private details – even though the reference letter should go into detail about the relationship with the candidate, it should never go deeper than that. It should be kept professional, and should never share any personal struggles or intimate matters
• Proofread and edit – the character reference letter, just like any other document, should be thoroughly checked for any errors and edited before being sent out. It is always a great idea to also ask a friend or a family member to double-check it

And finally, as promised, we are going to provide you with a great example of a character reference letter to get you started when starting to write one yourself.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I have known Jane Doe for almost five years. We met while studying in the same academic institution years ago, and she offered to help me out with my small startup.

Jane is one of the most hard-working, dedicated, and innovative people I have ever known. She is also compassionate, and always ready to help others.

Once while we are still attending Cambridge university, a lecturer of hers got really sick, and as she was a soon-to-be graduate, stepped in and taught their lecture until they got better, sacrificing her own time to prepare for her final exams.

Jane is the type of person that you can always count on to remain calm during a stressful situation, and help to find the most efficient solution to a problem.

For all these reasons, I recommend Jane Doe for the marketing specialist position, and I believe she would greatly help your company grow and improve.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me any time.

John Johnson

+44 1632 960133

[email protected]

We are all done, now you know who to ask for a character reference letter, and how to write a compelling one when someone asks you to.

Let’s go through all the essential parts a reference should include:

• Explanation of the relationship to the candidate – a great way to start off a reference letter is to share some detail about how you know the candidate
• Information about how you know you have known the candidate – that information only strengthens any information you share further on in the reference letter
• Highlights of positive qualities, backed up with specific examples – once you have showed the connection to the candidate, you would like to get to the point and show why they would be a great fit for the position they are applying for
• End with a statement of a recommendation and contact details – you would want to wrap up the reference with a recommendation and at least two pieces of contact information

Take one last look at our example of a compelling character reference letter, and prepare yourself to help your fellow get their next job.

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How to Ask for a Character Reference

Quick Navigation: 

What is a character reference?

Who to ask for a character reference, how to ask for a character reference.

Many job applications require a list of character references, also known as personal references. You should always ask the people you want to list as a reference so they will be prepared to give you an excellent character reference via telephone, email or letter. In this article, you’ll learn what a character reference is, who to ask to be your reference and how to ask for a character reference.  

A character reference is a person who can confirm your skills and personality to help a company get a better idea of your personality before they decide to hire you. You may need to provide a list of character references before an interview, on your employment application or after an interview.  A personal reference would not discuss your job performance, but they may discuss your: 

• General attitude
• Dependability
• Trustworthiness

Unlike a professional reference, a character reference should be someone who knows you outside of work. You should choose someone who knows you well. However, it may be best to avoid including references who are close family members or friends. They will likely provide the employer with a biased perspective of your personal characteristics. 

For instance, a character reference could be someone who is your:

• Friend 
• Distant relative

Providing references whom you have volunteered alongside or worked together in an informal setting are also excellent people to add to your reference list. 

Once you decide on who to ask for a character reference, you will need to decide how to ask for the reference. 

Here are some tips that can help you ask for a character reference:

1. First, decide how you will ask for your character reference

Consider how long you’ve known the person and the typical method of communication you use with them before reaching out to them. Use your best judgment when asking for a reference in person or over the phone. Make sure to provide as many details as possible about the company you are applying to. Asking through email is less personal but it may give them time to consider your request. Rather than automatically assuming they will agree to your request, give them the option to say no.

2. Next, practice what to say for your character reference request

If you are going to ask your reference in-person or over the phone, try practicing your request with someone else. Have the other person role-play multiple responses to your request. This way you may be better prepared to respond to the answers or questions the individuals may have. If you are submitting your request through email, it may be helpful to draft a couple of emails and have someone proofread them before you send the final request.

3. Then, be specific in your character reference request

Make sure your chosen reference knows these four things:

• How to give the character reference: telephone, email or letter
• When the reference needs to be completed
• What job you are applying for
• What attributes you’d like them to highlight in the reference

4. Explain why you are asking them to be your reference

Providing a reason for why you value your reference’s opinion of you is an excellent way to establish or re-establish a connection with them. They may be more likely to give you a glowing character reference if you provide them a heartfelt explanation of why they are one of your top choices to provide a reference. 

For instance, you could say ‘Since you are excellent with community outreach and management, I thought that the hiring manager at Shirts With a Cause would value your opinion of me.’

5. Then, provide resources when you ask for a character reference

It is possible that the person you are asking to give a reference for you might not have given a reference for anyone else before. Give them ample resources that they can refer to so they can provide the best character reference possible. They may need guidelines on format and content, especially if they are required to draft a reference letter. 

6. Last, thank the person after you request a character reference

When someone provides you with a reference, it is important to thank them for taking the time out of their busy schedule to help you. You may want to write them a thank you letter or email after the reference is completed. This is a common courtesy to express your gratitude. Also, don’t forget to make them aware of the outcome of the job interviewing process.