Crafting the Perfect Character Reference Letter- Essential Phrases and Tips

What to Say in a Character Reference Letter

Writing a character reference letter can be a challenging task, especially when you want to provide a comprehensive and meaningful portrayal of the individual you are recommending. The letter should not only highlight the person’s positive qualities but also offer specific examples that demonstrate their character and capabilities. In this article, we will discuss the key elements to include in a character reference letter and provide some tips on what to say to make it stand out.

Start with a Personal Introduction

Begin your letter with a brief introduction that states your relationship with the individual. Mention your name, position, and the duration of your association with them. This sets the context for the reader and establishes your credibility as a reference.

Highlight the Person’s Strengths and Qualities

In the body of the letter, focus on the strengths and qualities that make the individual a suitable candidate for the position they are applying for. Be specific and provide examples of how these qualities have been demonstrated in the past. For instance, if you are writing a reference for a former employee, mention their strong work ethic, teamwork skills, and ability to handle challenging situations.

Include Specific Examples

To make your letter more impactful, include specific examples that illustrate the person’s abilities and character. These examples should be relevant to the position they are applying for and demonstrate how the individual has successfully used their skills in real-life situations. For example, if the person has shown leadership qualities, describe a situation where they took charge and led a team to achieve a goal.

Address Any Challenges or Issues

If there were any challenges or issues that the individual faced during their tenure, address them briefly but positively. Explain how they overcame these challenges and what they learned from the experience. This shows that you have a well-rounded view of the person and their abilities.

Conclude with a Strong Recommendation

End your letter with a strong recommendation. Restate your confidence in the person’s abilities and suitability for the position. You can also mention that you would be happy to provide further information or answer any questions the reader may have.

Here’s a Sample Character Reference Letter

[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Contact Information]

[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Position]
[Recipient’s Company/Organization]
[Recipient’s Contact Information]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to offer my character reference for [Name of the Individual]. As [Name of the Individual]’s [position/role] at [Company/Organization], I have had the pleasure of working closely with them for [duration of employment/association]. I am confident in recommending [Name of the Individual] for [position they are applying for] due to their exceptional qualities and abilities.

Throughout our time together, I have observed [Name of the Individual] demonstrate a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to teamwork. One notable example is when [describe a specific situation where they demonstrated their skills]. This experience highlights their ability to [mention a relevant skill or quality].

In addition to their professional skills, [Name of the Individual] has also shown great resilience and adaptability. They have faced [mention any challenges or issues] and have consistently overcome these obstacles, learning valuable lessons along the way.

I wholeheartedly recommend [Name of the Individual] for the [position they are applying for]. They possess the qualities and abilities necessary to excel in this role and contribute positively to your organization. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or have any questions.

Thank you for considering my recommendation.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Company/Organization]
[Your Contact Information]