Writing Character References

A Character Reference Letter

Writing a character reference is less formal than writing an employment reference, but similar to writing a letter of recommendation. Instead of focusing on how this individual did at his job, you are sharing what type of person he is. The letter will highlight his characteristics, personality, strengths, and other positive traits and accomplishments.

Saying “Yes” or “No”

If a friend, family member or acquaintance asks you about writing character references to help him find a new job or get into a school, make sure you are willing to say something genuinely positive about him as a person or his work values and ethics. Writing a letter when you have nothing genuinely good to say puts both of you in a compromising position. If your experience with this person does not allow you to focus on his positive traits, kindly thank him for thinking about you and let him know that you are unable to write it.

If you are approached by someone who you respect, admire, feel is a hard worker and will make a great employee, then say “yes!” Now it’s time to write him a great letter.

Writing Character References

With the growth of the Internet and email, it is easy to simply type out a letter on your business email account and hit send. However, writing character references is more formal and needs to be taken seriously. In many cases, both what you say about this person and the impression your letter makes can make a difference in whether or not he gets the job.

Boxed Free Concepts is a great resource to review before you begin writing character references.

The Letter

Though writing character references involves less formality than writing an employment reference, you will want to follow the correct letter layout. Proper letter etiquette includes:

• Date
• Address
• Salutation: To whom it may concern / Dear Mr. Smith
• Body
• Closing

Though the length is not important, you want to make sure you include enough information to give the reader a feel for who the subject of the letter is and why he will be a valuable asset to the company. However, be concise and don't make the letter so that it loses the reader’s interest.

What to Include

While writing the letter, keep in mind “buzz” words that represent positive traits. Some examples of good words to include are:

• Ambitious
• Hard working
• Goes out of his/her way/above and beyond
• Creative/full of original ideas
• Courteous/polite
• Able to take a project to completion
• Self-starter
• Leader
• Strengths

Avoid using negatives such as:

• Is not
• Never
• Will not/won’t
• Did not/didn’t

Keep the letter positive and flowing. Don’t jump all over the place with different thoughts, but keep each "story" to it's own paragraph.

Writing the Letter

Below is an example of a letter. If you are unsure of what accomplishments the person you are writing character references for has achieved, interview him before writing the letter. Ask him:

• What accomplishments are you proud of?
• What activities are you involved in?
• What volunteer experiences have you had?
• What are your hobbies and how do you fulfill them?
• What job are you applying for and why?

A Sample Letter

April 29, 2007

Owner, Glass Slipper

123 Fairytale Lane

Castle Heights, FL 66666

To Whom It May Concern:

In the first paragraph, include who you are writing about and what position she is applying for.

I am writing in regards to Cinderella. She recently applied for the position of salesperson at the Glass Slipper.

Next include how you know the person and something positive about her.

I have known Cinderella ever since she was a scullery maid. Of all the houses I have visited, hers was always the cleanest. The floors actually sparkled. In that time, she impressed me with her love of animals, communication skills and talent for keeping a clean house. She is very dependable and can always be counted on when any person, or animal, needs a favor.

In the next paragraph include any accomplishments the she hs done, or how she has affected your life.

Cinderella is an avid volunteer in the community, working with the Humane Society and Habitat for Humanity. Last year she was in charge of building a home for the poor. Her responsibilities included finding volunteers, organizing them and overseeing the construction. She is always eager to help out and steps up when the need arises.

Finish with another interesting story or tidbit about her accomplishments

I can assure you that Cinderella will be the perfect addition to your business. She has a way of finding a need and working to make life better. She began the Save the Singing Birds organization after she noticed they did not have anywhere to live. Even with everything she is involved in, she still finds time to spend feeding the homeless.

Sincerely,

Fairy Godmother

The Finished Letter

Once you have completed the letter, review it for spelling and grammatical errors. If possible, type up the address on the envelope or on Avery labels, include a business card with your contact information. Finally, let your friend know the letter is in the mail.