Writing a Character Reference Letter to a Friend – Sample Format

 

When writing a character reference letter for a friend, it helps to have a clear understanding of what a reference letter is, how it should be constructed, and what should be included.

Typically, a reference letter is written to recommend a person for a particular position based on their skills and achievements and your personal observation of those skills.

It must be built in a professional and serious way, which means that grammar and spelling count. Any obvious mistakes will decrease the intended impact of your character's reference card.

Know the specific purpose of the letter

Before you write a reference letter, have an idea of ​​who will read it. A reference letter should support the points your friend has already made in their application and the accompanying cover letter. You should also know the exact purpose of the letter.

A reference letter is usually included in the following circumstances:

Follow up on a job offer before signing a contractStudent applying for an academic courseStudent applying for academic fundingAs a resume enhancement to provide testimonials that convey positive qualities.Potential tenants to display desirable characteristics

Preparing to write a reference letter

Ideally, you should know the candidate (the person you are writing the reference letter for) fairly well to write an effective reference letter. You certainly don't want to lie or manipulate the truth.

Talk about what you know about the person. If, for example, you are not really sure of your financial state, focus on other positive aspects of your character.

Preparing to write a reference letter

Ideally, you should know the candidate (the person you are writing the reference letter for) fairly well to write an effective reference letter. You certainly don't want to lie or manipulate the truth.

Talk about what you know about the person. If, for example, you are not really sure of your financial state, focus on other positive aspects of your character.

Structure of a reference letter

The structure of a reference letter depends on the purpose of the letter. However, there are certain common elements that such a reference letter should include.

Use the business letter format with the recipient's name and address followed by a salutation, usually “Dear” followed by the recipient's name. If you don't know who the recipient is, a general “to whom it may concern” is fine.

The basic structure of a reference letter should include:

A brief introduction of who you are and how you know the candidate, briefly stating your relationship to the candidate and any applicable qualifications you have, such as being your former co-worker or having taught that person in a class.A paragraph confirming any facts you know about the candidate. If it's a job reference letter, take a look at your cover letter and resume, and base your assessment on the qualities mentioned in those documents.A list of people starting and ending salary, basic job duties performed, and the nature of your work if you are an employer providing a reference letter for a workplace friend.A list of that person's academic performance and grades along with your evaluation of their performance in class or during their internship if they are writing from an academic perspective.Discuss your personal opinion of the candidate's qualifications. This is where you can honestly say that you would hire the person or that they were a good student.Identify some specific examples to highlight your points along with desirable characteristics. Add a few details that your friends would like you to include, as long as you can honestly agree with them.Close on a positive note. Indicate if the recipient can contact you for any additional information or follow-up questions they may have. If so, please include your contact information.