How to Write a Character Reference Letter (Samples & Tips)

A character reference letter tells the employer about a candidate’s character traits and personal attributes. It intends to expound on the candidate’s characteristics that help them excel at their job.
Employers will either tell the candidate to include it during their applications, after an interview or before they make an offer.

Tips on writing a character reference

Before you can write the character reference letter, make sure you have all the information about the position. Ensure you know the role the candidate is applying or interviewing for, what company they are dealing with, how it should be submitted, and by what date.

• Visit the company website to find out what the company is about, their culture and the kind of candidate they need.
• Only accept the request to write a reference letter if you can write something good about the candidate and highlight their work ethic or personality.
• Provide detailed examples that highlight the qualities and skills of the candidate.
• Do not exceed a page. Make the letter concise and descriptive.

How to write a character reference letter

• Provide information about how you know the candidate and for how long you’ve known them.
• Focus on the candidate’s strongest skills or qualities, those that will make them stand out. Use examples to support your claims. The skills and qualities can include leadership, dedication, communication skills, etc.
• Recommend the candidate. For example, “these reasons make Jane a worthy candidate for the position, and I believe she would be an asset to your organization.”
• Include your contact information in case the employer would like to call you.
• Proofread and edit your letter for grammatical, structural or spelling mistakes.

Sample character reference letter

Jane Brown
678 Corner Street
Downtown, Fl 5678
789 4987- 00001
[email protected]

Date

Gordon Hatch
Human Resource Manager
Energetics Limited
900 Atom Road.
Business Bay, 8989

Dear Mr. Hatch,

I have had the opportunity to know Enid Butler for ten years now. I am delighted to offer this character reference letter on behalf of her customer service associate role. Enid is initiative, innovative and strategic which makes her an asset to any company.

Enid is an excellent sales and project manager. These qualities are demonstrated clearly in her ability to solve problems, prioritize and manage complex projects proficiently. She is an open-minded leader with excellent communication skills. She oversees the customer service team at ABC by effectively bringing out the best in each of her team members. She motivates them through encouraging collaborative work and coordinates efforts to achieve ABC’s goals.

Enid and I met at a Customer service training seminar for interns wishing to join the industry. Her skills have impressed me over the years, and I occasionally seek out her advice on how to motivate and track my team’s performance. She is creative, insightful, hardworking and dedicated. She is the type of person you can count on to help and keep a cool head even when situations are stressful. She also has a positive go-getter attitude that I must say is contagious.

I highly recommend Enid for the customer service associate position at your organization. I am confident that she will be an asset to your customer service department. You can contact me if you have any further questions or need additional information into her professional qualities.

Sincerely,

Jane Brown