Sample Character Reference Letter

A sample character reference letter can help an individual create this type of educational or employment related letter. A character reference letter is not something an individual writes for himself. Rather, a third party, someone who is able to vouch for the person's true character, writes it. If you need a character reference letter written for you, give the individual writing it a few samples for guidance.

Reference letters may be needed when starting a business.

The first step in having a character reference letter written for you is to determine who will write it. A good choice is someone who knows you well, such as a good friend, a family member (not an immediate relative) or even a past employer. The person should be someone who will have some positive details about you to share.

When you know who will write the letter, if they are unsure how to proceed, offer them a sample to look at. This provides a basic blueprint for how to write the character reference letter, and can be helpful because there are several things to keep in mind when writing a letters of recommendation.

• Write in First Person: Since the character reference letter is a direct account of an individual's character, it is very important for the letter to be written in first person. Using the word "I" in the letter is appropriate.

• Tell a Story: When it comes to writing a winning character reference letter, be sure to encourage a story. For example, ask a family friend to write about your charity work in which they participated. A story gives a better indication of character than just character traits.

• Use Positive, Descriptive Words: It is always important to choose wording carefully in these letters, but you may wish to give the writer guidance on the types of words businesses or schools are looking for in these letters. The words should be descriptive, such as: ambitious, committed, generous, intelligent, leader, detail oriented, empathetic, and loyal.

A character reference letter may be in use to gain college acceptance. A potential employer may request a reference letter if they wish to learn more about an individual's personality. The following is an example of an employer based character reference letter.

To Whom It May Concern,

My name is James Eden and I am Patrick Knapp's long time family friend. I understand he is applying for a position within your company and I wish to share some personal details about his character and overall moral compass.

Patrick grew up in a humble home, and throughout his young life committed to various organizations as a way to help. He was an immediate leader from a young age, having helped to lead his baseball team to great seasons each year. He also was incredibly responsible, helping at the local YMCA on weekends. He spent Sunday's working with the church's youth ministry programs. He has always been generous with his time. I remember an occasion when Patrick spent a full weekend aiding an elderly neighbor with some home repairs. He was only 14 but managed to enable the woman to get her home back in code.

I highly encourage you to consider Patrick for the position. He is detail oriented and hard working. Patrick is a loyal friend and has been a team player throughout his college years.

Thank you, James Eden

You know you need someone to write a reference letter for you, but how do you convince him or her to do so? Once you have given them a sample character reference letter to use, the next step is to give them something to talk about. Here are some tips.

• Remind them of something positive you did with them in the past, such as a project you worked on together, a trip you went on with them or an event you both participated.

• Show them sample letters and talk about how the samples can be tweaked to fit your character traits.

• Encourage the writer to share an honest opinion.

Character letters are personal and are not to be the only element to an application. Yet, they are an important part of showing an employer or college counselor that you are the right person for them..

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