How to Compose a Sample Character Reference Letter

Albert Nlekem Edozien
Depending on the necessity of a character reference letter, you must determine what information is important to reflect good qualities or what could cause a negative impact. Normally, character reference letter are used in the interview process. There are higher levels of character letter references for positions of high security, possibly even for public media outlets to ensure what is meant to be confidential, if required, can be trusted with the character reference given. Let us review some simple steps to avoid confusion as to what to include to make you character reference letter stand out.

Most important you should list where you know the individual from. Also the time frame in which you have known the individual is important. If you haven't known them for a long time, this may make your character reference letter less effective. If this individual worked for you or with you, indicate that also. Also indicate your title if you were a manager or supervisor. It is smart to think of the perspective of the person that will be viewing this, especially if it is used in a hiring process.

Any special skills, software knowledge, unique offerings they brought to the work place are also excellent to list. If the person who is in need of the character reference letter created a filing system for your reports or was employee of the month, be sure to indicate this. It will improve the outlook of what they can offer the new employer. Implying a fresh new way to do things. State their accomplishments, it shows a lot.

Character is another topic that should be listed in the character reference letter. Is this person trust worthy, reliable, or honest? If you are trying to be honest and some of these things do not meet their character, focus on other positives they offer or perhaps do not write the character reference letter at all. Honesty is the best policy and if the person is dishonest, and something happens it could come back to taint your good name.

Last but least, list your contact information; this way if there are any additional questions you can be reached. If you prefer not to be reached by phone, at least give an email. Let them know you are willing to answer any further questions if necessary. With this type of content included in a character reference letter, the person requesting that you write one will be very grateful for you participation and helping them move on in life.

Published by Albert Nlekem Edozien

I am a Christian Educator. A free-lance writer and an editor of a Christian magazine. I was born and brought up in Nigeria but currently based in USA.  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Kevin Hagen12/13/2009

    Good advice.

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