Requesting and Writing Character Reference Letters
Looking for your first job? Concerned about the references your employer might give you? Consider using a character reference (personal reference) in addition to or as an alternative to employment reference letters. Use Personal References Keep in mind that, if you are employed or have worked in the past, employers will check with your previous employers. However, if your work record isn't perfect you can bolster your candidacy with a good character reference. If you are looking for your first job, you can use personal references instead of employment references. Who to Ask for a Reference Who should you ask to provide a personal reference or write a character reference letter for you? Neighbors and acquaintances may be willing to write a reference for you. Business acquaintances, professors/academic advisors, customers, and vendors can all make good references. If you volunteer consider using leaders or other members of the organization as personal references. Have you participated in the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, a similar organization or in school sports? Ask your group leader or coach to write a personal letter of reference for you. If you've baby-sat or dog-sat or shoveled snow, ask the people you worked for if they will write a reference letter for you. The following is a sample character reference letter written by an acquaintance rather than an employer. You can use this as a template if you are ever asked to be a character reference for a friend. Type it using your own name and return address in full block format. Because it is a personal letter, you do NOT type your initials at the
bottom as you would in a business letter. Note that ¶ means New Paragraph (DS). Omit the inside address and salutation. Use RE: JANE DOE instead. Refer to the Parts of a Business Letter you created if necessary. I have known Jane Doe in a variety of capacities for many years. She has been my daughter's riding instructor for the past several years. In addition, she is my partner in a small business where she is responsible for writing and editing articles and website content. ¶Jane is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all ages. Her communication skills, both written and verbal, are excellent. ¶In summary, I highly recommend Jane for any position or endeavor that she may seek to pursue. ¶She will be a valuable asset for any organization. ¶If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. ¶Sincerely
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