Crafting Stellar Character Letters of Recommendation for Employees: A Guide with Examples

February 4, 2025
Stanley Meek
10 min read

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Crafting Stellar Character Let ...

“So, tell me about John,” I asked, leaning back in my chair. The young man sitting across from me shifted nervously. “He’s… uh… a good guy?” I chuckled inwardly. Five years as an HR manager, and I’d heard it all. The vague platitudes, the hesitant pauses, the desperate hope that a simple “good guy” would land their friend the job. But in the competitive world of hiring, “good” wasn’t enough. We needed specifics. We needed a compelling character letter of recommendation.

And that’s where I come in. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the art of crafting a recommendation letter that doesn’t just describe an employee as “good,” but paints a vivid picture of their character, skills, and potential. We’re going to review the ingredients of a strong letter, work through real-life examples, and at the end, you will have everything it takes to write a standout recommendation.

Key Points

Character letters of recommendation provide a comprehensive view of a candidate’s work ethic, interpersonal skills, and integrity, going beyond standard work references.
These letters are particularly valuable for candidates with limited work history, those applying for roles requiring strong interpersonal skills, or when there are gaps in their work record.
A successful character reference includes the writer’s relationship with the candidate, highlights of the candidate’s character traits, relevant skills, potential for future success, and the writer’s contact information.
Before writing, assess if you can provide a positive recommendation. Gather relevant information about the candidate and identify three essential qualities to discuss.
Include specific examples from your experiences with the candidate to showcase their positive traits and professional behavior.

Letter of Recommendation for Employee

A character letter of recommendation, sometimes a character reference, character reference letter, or even a personal reference, is a letter that considers a person’s work ethic, interpersonal skills, and integrity, in addition to whatever else can be said positively about them. In contrast with a run-of-the-mill work-related reference, a character reference considers an individual in general, not necessarily one pertaining specifically to work performance.

Think of it, a glimpse into a candidate’s soul, a view of personality and character that make them not only a capable employee, but a value-added individual in any group.

When is a Character Reference Letter Needed?

While not necessarily a necessity, a character reference letter can be a powerful tool in a job searcher’s arsenal. Particularly, it proves useful in cases when:

The candidate has little work background.
The candidate is positioning himself for a role with high interpersonal demands.
The candidate seeks a character-sensitive role, for example, in a medical field, in schools, etc.
The candidate’s work record contains gaps and discrepancies.

In these cases, a strong character reference can tip in a candidate’s direction, and in its positive terms, unveil a talent not seen in a resume.

Key Elements of a Successful Character Letter of Recommendation

A strong character reference letter will have the following key ingredients:

1. Your Relationship with the Candidate:

Clearly state your basis for knowing him and your duration of acquaintance with him.
This establishes your credibility as a reference.

2. Candidate’s Character Qualities:

Highlight the positive personality traits of the candidate, such as integrity, dependability, and sympathy
Use specific examples to illustrate these character traits

3. Candidate’s Skills and Qualities:

While the personality is prioritized, one can add pertinent skills and competencies that underlie a candidate’s character.
For example, in a problem-solving skill, one can say that such a skill helps them become a determined and resourceful individual.

4. Candidate’s Potential:

Express your faith in the future success of the candidate in the desired career path or position
This shows that you have confidence in their abilities.

5. Your Contact Information:

Provide your name, title, phone, and electronic mail address in case a recipient wishes to contact you with any questions.

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

At the start, consider whether you can truly provide a positive recommendation when someone requests a letter of recommendation. Refusal to provide the recommendation letter should be your choice if you need more time to decide whether they qualify for endorsement.

You should proceed with writing a positive employment reference for an employee using a sample letter as follows:

1. Review all information about the individual you worked with. Ask your HR department to provide you with their former team position while employed at your organization along with their work duration. Check your documentation since it may contain relevant information about the person.

2. Jot down three essential characteristics of this person in your list. Include proof-based examples when you note these qualities throughout your reference letter.

3. Evaluate different moments from your encounters with this individual who demonstrated positive traits or displayed expert behavior. One example should be included when possible.

4. An employee reference letter template from our bank will guide you when writing letters of recommendation.

Key Takeaway: Writing a quality recommendation letter for an employee with the help of a template sample requires approximately thirty minutes of time. Your time should be dedicated to this individual when you possess positive statements about them.

Sample Character Letter of Recommendation for an Employee

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am offering my most strong endorsement for [Candidate’s Name] for [Position Name] at [Company Name]. I have had pleasure in knowing [Candidate’s Name] for the past [number] years in my position as [Your Relationship to the Candidate].

During our working period, [Candidate’s Name] showed a high level of character and a strong work ethic at all times. She is famous for possessing unchangeable integrity, a high work ethic, and a high level of dependability. I have been consistently surprised at her willingness to go the extra mile, have a positive attitude, and work both individually and in a group effectively.

One specific instance that best reflects [Candidate’s Name] character is [Specific Example]. What this reveals about them is [Character Trait] and a dedication to [Value].

In addition to possessing a strong character, [Candidate’s Name] possesses a range of useful capabilities and skills. [Candidate’s Name] is a strong communicator, a quick learner, and a problem solver. I believe that these capabilities and skills, together with possessing an exceptional character, make them an ideal candidate for [Position Name].

I have no qualms in stating that [Candidate’s Name] will positively contribute to your organization. [Candidate’s Name] is a morally strong individual and a responsible individual with a strong desire to learn and develop himself. I wholeheartedly endorse them for this position.

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] in case you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Title]

Tips for a Persuasive Character Reference

Be Specific: Do not make general statements and use concrete examples to represent character of the candidate
Be Honest: Do not exaggerate and misdescribe the candidate’s traits.
Be Professional: Write in a proper tone and proof your letter well
Be Timely: Submit your letter promptly to avoid delays in the hiring process.

The Impact of a Well-Crafted Character Letter

A well-crafted character letter of recommendation can have a significant impact in an individual’s career life. It can:

Differentiate the Candidate: In a competitive marketplace, a strong character reference can differentiate a candidate and make them stand out in a crowded field.
Showcase the Candidate’s Ability: A character reference can reveal a candidate’s potential that isn’t necessarily apparent in a resume.
Build Trust: Constructing a positive character reference can build trust between the future employer and the individual.

What is a letter of recommendation, and why is it important?

A letter of recommendation is a formal document written by someone who is familiar with your work or academic performance and offers a positive endorsement of your skills, abilities, and character. It is essential for graduate school admissions, job applications, and other situations where a third-party validation of your qualifications is required; it essentially serves as a testimonial to your strengths and suitability for a position or program.

Why it matters:

Gives credibility: A letter from a reputable professional gives your application weight by providing an outside perspective on your capabilities.
Highlights specific accomplishments: The writer can provide specific examples of your accomplishments and how you excelled in previous roles that may not be fully captured in your resume.
Exhibits character and work ethic: In addition to your technical abilities, a letter can highlight your traits as a leader, team player, and dependable person.
Boosts competitiveness: Being chosen in a competitive application pool can be significantly helped by a solid reference letter.

What should a letter of recommendation include?

The contents of a recommendation letter should be tailored to the particular position or program the candidate is applying for. It should include a clear introduction outlining your relationship with the candidate, a thorough explanation of their relevant skills and strengths with specific examples, a personal story showcasing their abilities, a confident statement of recommendation, and your contact information for verification.

How long should it take me to write a letter of recommendation?

Writing a thorough recommendation letter should take a few hours of your time. To help you write a more individualized letter, you can ask the candidate to send you their resume and a list of their accomplishments. To make the process easier, you can utilize HRImprove’s free letter of recommendation template.

Is there a template I can use for the recommendation letter?

Yes!

You can utilize a template for a letter of recommendation for students or employees. Since a recommendation letter has more weight than a generic one, it is preferable to customize it with advice.

How do I present the recommendation letter?

It is best to adhere to the guidelines given by the business after composing the recommendation letter, utilizing an example. Some people might require a sealed and signed letter of recommendation, while others would prefer an emailed copy.

It is vital to submit the recommendation letter before the deadline

Conclusion: Your Words Can Make a Difference

Remember, a character letter of recommendation is not a mere formality but an opportunity to speak for a person whom you believe in, to expose them in full, and to allow them to actualize career aspirations. By reading through and following tips and examples in this handbook, you can write a strong character reference that can make a significant impact. So, the next time a request for a letter of recommendation lands in your lap, don’t say, “They’re a ‘good guy.'” Spend a little time crafting a letter that accurately portrays their actual character and potential. What you say can become the key to opening doors to future success for them.