
Personal reference letters are written by recommenders, who can bear witness to an applicant’s accomplishments and abilities. This article provides you with examples for character, scholarship, and employment purposes.
Writing letters, especially for jobs and interviews, can be a tough task for many people, as it has to be written deftly, ensuring that all the necessary points are included in the letter without missing out on any important fact or figure. This recommendation letter makes the prospective employer aware of the character traits and personality that the person seeking the job possesses. These letters, no doubt, have become a necessity in today’s competitive environment.
Conditions
Reference letters can be written by a close colleague, teacher, manager, or supervisor who has known the candidate for a long time. In these types of letters, the qualities of the person and the fact that he is trustworthy and honest are mentioned upfront. Remember that this letter could make or break the deal for a prospective candidate to get hired or selected. So, write it with extreme care, truthfully, and professionally. Avoid highlighting the person’s race, religion, or political views.
Sample 1: Character Reference
Preferably, character reference letters should be written by a person with whom you are well-acquainted.
Referrer’s Name
Referrer’s Occupation
Referrer’s Address
Referrer’s Phone Number
Referrer’s Email Address
Date
To Whomsoever it May Concern:
I feel proud to recommend [Referee’s Name], one of my closest friends for over 18 years. During the years of our friendship, he has been with me in all the ups and downs of my life. As a skilled musician, he has been my daughter’s music teacher for over five years.
Integrity in thoughts and punctuality are two of his best-known qualities that I have found to be his valuable assets in the long years of our friendship. He has spent several summers working with primary school and college students in imparting his music skills. His ability to put on a cheerful face even during difficult times is what I appreciate about him. A skilled musician, dedicated husband, and a father of three, he is capable of handling the job that you will assign him. I’m confident that his maturity and skills will be an asset to your organization.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions. I will be glad to help.
Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
Referrer’s Name
Sample 2: For a Scholarship Program
Students often need a personal reference letter to get a scholarship, or join some internship.
Referrer’s Name
Referrer’s Designation
Referrer’s Address
Referrer’s Phone Number
Referrer’s Email Address
Date
To Whomsoever it May Concern:
I would gladly recommend [Candidate’s Name] for your ‘Ignited Minds’ science scholarship program. He has been a student of this school for over 9 years, and his performance has been extraordinary in all his classes till date. Science has been his favorite subject, and it is evident from the achievements and prizes that he has won by participating in the various interschool competitions. Curiosity and keen interest in science subjects, especially physics, have driven him to participate in numerous national-level competitions as well.
As the principal of this school, I have seen him toiling hard to acquire knowledge and prove himself. I’m confident that this scholarship will surely give him an opportunity to excel and hone his laboratory skills. He will definitely turn out to be one of your best candidates.
If you wish to know more, or have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
Referrer’s Name
Sample 3: For a Prospective Employer
For an employer, it is easy to write a professional letter of recommendation as he/she is aware of the performance and attributes of the employee.
Referrer’s Name
Referrer’s Designation in his organization
Referrer’s Organization’s Address
Referrer’s Official Phone Number
Referrer’s Official Email Address
Date
To Whomsoever it May Concern:
I highly recommend [Employee’s Name] for the job posting in your company. He has ample experience in the field of accounting and was employed with us for the period from 2005 to 2011. During his tenure with us, he displayed excellent levels of commitment, honesty, reliability, and flexibility. He has good communication skills and is also capable of following up to ensure that the job is done rightly and completed on time.
I can confirm that he is a man of great principles, is extremely dedicated, and quick to volunteer or assist in other areas of operations as well. Without a doubt, he will be a valuable asset to your company.
If you wish to know more or have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
Referrer’s Name
As you can see, personal reference letters of recommendation are just a mirror of your personality and skills. So, ensure that the person writing it knows you closely, both personally and professionally.