How to Write a Character Reference for Employment
Someone has asked you to write a character reference for a job application. It's a sign they trust you — but now you need to deliver something that actually helps them get hired.
A character reference (also called a personal reference) is different from a professional reference. It speaks to who someone is as a person, not just their work history. Employers request them when they want a fuller picture of a candidate — especially for roles involving trust, responsibility, or working with vulnerable people.
When employers ask for character references: Roles in healthcare, education, childcare, finance, security, and care work often require character references. They're also common for candidates with limited work history, career changers, or those returning to work after a break.
What Is a Character Reference for Employment?
A character reference is a letter from someone who knows the candidate personally and can vouch for their character, reliability, and suitability for the role. Unlike a professional reference from a former employer, it focuses on personal qualities rather than job performance.
Character references are typically written by:
- Long-term friends who know the candidate well
- Neighbours who can speak to reliability and community involvement
- Teachers, tutors, or mentors
- Religious or community leaders
- Volunteer coordinators
- Family friends (not immediate family)
What Employers Want to See
Employers reading character references are looking for evidence of:
| Quality | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Reliability | Will they show up on time and follow through? |
| Honesty | Can they be trusted with money, data, or responsibility? |
| Work ethic | Do they take commitments seriously? |
| Interpersonal skills | Will they work well with colleagues and customers? |
| Character under pressure | How do they handle challenges or setbacks? |
What to Include
1. Your details and relationship
Start by introducing yourself and explaining how you know the candidate. Include how long you've known them and in what context.
"My name is Sarah Mitchell, and I have known James Porter for eight years. We met through our children's school and have remained close family friends. I see James regularly and have watched him grow both personally and professionally."
2. Specific examples of positive qualities
Don't just list adjectives — provide concrete examples that demonstrate the qualities you're describing.
"James is one of the most reliable people I know. When I was recovering from surgery last year, he collected my children from school every day for six weeks without fail. He never once cancelled or arrived late."
3. Relevance to the role
If you know what job they're applying for, tailor your examples to show qualities relevant to that role.
"I understand James is applying for a care assistant position. I can confirm that he has a natural gift for patience and compassion. He spent months helping his elderly neighbour with shopping and appointments, always treating her with dignity and respect."
4. Your recommendation
End with a clear statement of support and your willingness to be contacted.
"I have no hesitation in recommending James for this role. He would be an asset to any team, and I am happy to provide further information if required."
What NOT to Include
- Vague praise — "She's lovely" means nothing without examples
- Irrelevant information — Stick to qualities relevant to employment
- Exaggeration — Employers can spot overselling; it undermines credibility
- Negative comments — If you can't write positively, decline the request
- Personal details — Don't mention health, family circumstances, or anything discriminatory
- Lies — References can be verified; dishonesty reflects badly on everyone
Format and Presentation
- Length: One page (300-500 words)
- Format: Typed, professional layout
- Address: "To Whom It May Concern" or the specific employer if known
- Include: Your full name, address, phone number, email, and the date
- Sign: Print, then sign by hand
Sample Character Reference for Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Phone] | [Email]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern
Character Reference for [Candidate's Name]
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Name], whom I have known for [X years] as [relationship — friend, neighbour, etc.].
During this time, I have found [Name] to be [qualities with specific examples]. For instance, [concrete example demonstrating reliability/honesty/work ethic].
[Another example relevant to the role they're applying for].
I have no hesitation in recommending [Name] for employment. [He/She/They] would be a valuable addition to any organisation, and I am confident [he/she/they] will bring the same dedication and integrity to [his/her/their] professional life.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
[Printed Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can family members write character references?
Immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse) are usually not accepted as character references because they're assumed to be biased. However, extended family like aunts, uncles, or cousins may be acceptable depending on the employer.
What if I don't know what job they're applying for?
Focus on general positive qualities: reliability, honesty, work ethic, and interpersonal skills. These are valued in almost any role.
Should I mention how I'll feel if they get the job?
No. Keep the focus on the candidate's qualities, not your feelings about the outcome.
Can I refuse to write a character reference?
Yes. If you don't feel you can write something genuinely positive, it's better to politely decline than to write a weak or damaging reference.
Need Help With Your Character Reference?
ClearDraft prepares professional character references for any purpose. We take your information and structure it properly — so it makes the right impression. Fixed price: £45.
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