Being asked to write a character reference letter is a big responsibility and not one that should be taken lightly. And it can be, especially if it is your first time, a daunting task. To help you through your first character reference letter, we have provided a brief summary in addition to a link to a useful template. A character reference letter is used for a variety of things. It can be for a job application, for an academic program, or even for an issue that is court-related. What is important is that before writing one, a person should have the important information needed to put one together and that includes the background information of the person that the character reference letter is about.
Who can write character references?
A number of people are able to write a character reference letter - it’s just a matter of finding the one most suited for the purpose of the character reference.
Below is a list of possible options:
• A colleague • A volunteer leader • Someone that they volunteer with • A coach • A customer • A client • A vendor • An acquaintance in business • A professor • An academic advisor • A personal mentor • A professional mentor • A co-student • Someone that they graduated with from a program for education • A friend • A neighbor
It is important to keep in mind though that a person who needs a character reference should try to avoid asking this from someone that they are directly related to (e.g. a parent, sibling, in-law, and spouse). Character reference letters written by such people can be considered to be more subjective and have less impact than a character reference letter written by someone who is unrelated. With a character reference letter, a reference should mention person’s attributes that would help them with their application for a job, promotion, academic program, or for any other purpose it may serve - so it is very important to know the context of the reference letter.
Tips on how to write a character reference
Writing a character reference should not be too difficult. Here are some tips that could help:
• Mention your own background as well as the relationship with the person that the character reference is about. It can be how long you have known the person, the time spent together, and where you met. Be as detailed as possible. • Use a good template. Find one here. • When closing the letter, have a call-to-action that would urge the reader to be favorable on what the letter is about. • A character reference should be short, positive, and easy to read but includes the basics. • Briefly talk about any accomplishments that are relevant to the purpose of the character reference. • Include your contact information so the reader can contact you in case they have things to clarify. • Use the format of a business letter. • Make sure that you proof read for errors.
Writing a character reference letter can be daunting prospect but hopefully, with the tips suggested above in addition to the template provided - you should find it a pleasant and simple experience.
published under Business Address Guides
