According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, a person with character displays moral excellence and firmness (as in “a man of sound character”). In this context, being “moral” refers to knowing the principles of right and wrong behavior.
Character Recommendation Letter – A Very Personal Type of Reference
When someone is asked to provide a character reference letter, they are being asked to prove on paper that a certain individual consistently does the right thing.
This is perhaps one of the most personal types of reference letters someone can be asked to provide, because being in a position to attest to a person's character takes intimate knowledge of their actions and, more importantly, their true intentions behind those actions.
What to Include in a Character Letter of Reference
The best way to attest to a person’s character is to provide one or more specific examples. Here are several types of examples that can accomplish this objective:
- Anything that shows the individuals knows right from wrong
- Describing how the individual exemplifies good morals, integrity, or other positive traits
- Discussing how he or she dealt with an ethical dilemma in the appropriate manner
- Discussing how he or she demonstrates reliability and trustworthiness or displays a virtuous attitude or disposition in everyday life
- Examples of taking the high road when it wasn’t the easiest option or the most popular course of action
- Showing how he or she follows the rules
- Illustrating how he or she taught others to have character
Sample Character Reference Letter Templates for Microsoft Word
The Microsoft Office website is an excellent resource of sample character reference letter templates that are easily customizable in Microsoft Word. Here are two character recommendation letters available for free downloading:
- Formal Character Reference – This sample letter of recommendation discusses the candidate’s positive character traits and provides a specific example to support the referral. It can be opened with Word 97 or a later version.
- Reference for Professional Employee – This lengthy character recommendation letter explains that the candidate was laid off due to business circumstances and not due to job performance issues. Specific examples of on-the-job excellence put the candidate in a positive light. This one can also be opened with Word 97 or a later version.
Proving Good Moral Character in Writing
The most difficult part about attesting to someone’s character is that a person’s moral compass is an internal thing. In the absence of specific examples, good character may be difficult to prove on paper.
When specific examples aren’t available, the reference could discuss why he or she trusts the candidate in general. Above all, the reference should try not to make the candidate seem too rigid because flexibility is also important.
Other Free Sample Letter of Recommendation Templates for Co-Workers
Professional reference letters are commonly requested in office work environments. The two sample letters above are geared toward a professional individual, although the first character letter of reference could easily be customized to suit a non-professional referral.
For more recommendation examples, see the two articles below. Both provide completely customizable examples of professional reference letters written from a co-worker’s point of view.
Sample Letter of Recommendation for a Co-Worker
Sample Reference Letter from a Colleague
Resource:
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Other related articles:
Example Post-Interview Thank You Letter
Personal Reference Letter for a High School Student
Lena Gott - Lena Gott is a Certified Public Accountant who gives practical financial advice to her readers.
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