A Personal Letter of Recommendation, also known as a character reference letter, is primarily written by someone who knows you personally to provide insights into your character, integrity, and dependability. These letters can significantly bolster someone’s application for a job, an adoption, or even a club membership.
The letter writers may be teachers, neighbors, business acquaintances, or even friends and family members. Unlike professional recommendations that focus on your work experience and professional skills, personal recommendations highlight personal traits and interpersonal skills that might not be evident in a formal work environment.
When It’s Used
Personal recommendation letters are used to demonstrate strong values, character, or integrity — particularly for roles involving vulnerable populations or confidential information. They are valuable for individuals who:
- are entering the workforce for the first time or have limited work experience;
- are transitioning to a new career field;
- have been out of work for an extended period and lack recent professional references;
- are making a big purchase, such as a condominium;
- are adopting a child, as required by certain adoption agencies to assess parenting suitability;
- are adopting a pet, as required by certain pet adoption organizations to establish trustworthiness.
Professional vs Personal Recommendation Letter
Personal letters of recommendation, or character references, come from individuals who know you personally, such as colleagues or friends. They highlight your character, integrity, and interpersonal skills. Professional letters, however, focus on your work experience and professional skills. Both types are valuable but serve different purposes in assessing your suitability for new opportunities.
Personal Letter of Recommendation: Examples
Letter 1: High School Teacher Recommending Student for a Junior Sales Position
Dear Ms. Jenkins,
I am writing to highly recommend Karen Huff for the junior sales position at your esteemed company. As Karen’s high school teacher for the past three years, I have had the pleasure of witnessing her growth and development firsthand. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and exceptional interpersonal skills make her an ideal candidate for a career in sales.
Throughout her time at our school, Karen consistently demonstrated an impressive work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. She was an active participant in class discussions, always eager to contribute and engage with her peers. One particular instance that stands out was during our annual school fundraiser, where Karen played a key role in organizing and promoting the event. Her ability to communicate effectively and persuasively with both students and parents resulted in a record-breaking amount of funds raised.
In addition to her academic achievements, Karen possesses a natural ability to connect with others. She is empathetic, approachable, and has a knack for understanding people’s needs and motivations. These qualities were evident when she volunteered at our school’s peer counseling program, providing support and guidance to fellow students. Her empathetic nature and excellent communication skills will undoubtedly serve her well in a sales role, where building relationships and understanding clients’ needs are paramount.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Karen Huff for the junior sales position at your company. Her strong work ethic, exceptional interpersonal skills, and proven ability to excel in both academic and extracurricular activities make her an outstanding candidate. I am confident that she will be a valuable asset to your team. Please feel free to contact me at (555) 123-4567 or [email protected] if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Ellie Cheng
High School Teacher
Greenwood High School
Letter 2: Coworker Recommending Colleague for a Career Transition
Dear Mr. Turner,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Luke Elliot, who is seeking to transition from a PR Specialist in our marketing company to the position of Legal Assistant at Luxor Law Offices. Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Luke and have witnessed his exceptional abilities, dedication, and growing interest in the legal field. I am confident that he will excel in this new career path.
Luke has shown a remarkable aptitude for legal matters. Over the course of his tenure, he has taken a keen interest in the legal aspects of our projects, often volunteering to handle tasks that required legal insight. This curiosity led him to invest his personal time and effort into completing a two-year paralegal studies program, where he gained comprehensive knowledge of legal procedures, documentation, and research.
Luke’s proactive approach to learning and his dedication to expanding his skill set has been truly impressive. He has effectively applied his newfound legal knowledge to our projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and providing valuable insights during contract negotiations. His ability to bridge the gap between marketing and legal considerations has been a significant asset to our team.
Beyond his technical and legal skills, Luke is an exceptional communicator and collaborator. He has a natural ability to build strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. His approachable demeanor and willingness to listen make him a trusted and respected team member. During a particularly challenging project, Luke’s ability to mediate conflicts and find mutually beneficial solutions was invaluable in maintaining team cohesion and ensuring project success.
In summary, I wholeheartedly endorse Luke Elliot for the Legal Assistant position at Luxor Law Offices. His exceptional skills, dedication, and ability to thrive in dynamic environments make him an ideal candidate for this role. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (555) 987-6543 or [email protected] if you need any further information.
Sincerely,
Brooke Pays
PR Specialist
Innovate Marketing Inc.
Letter 3: Neighbor Recommending a Couple for Adopting a Dog
Dear Happy Paws Rescue,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend my neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Fox, for adopting Buttercup from your organization. I have had the pleasure of knowing the Fox family for over seven years, and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by their kindness, responsibility, and deep love for animals.
The Foxes are devoted pet owners who currently have a dog named Buddy. Buddy is well-cared for, healthy, and happy, reflecting the high level of attention and care they receive. I often see Mr. and Mrs. Fox walking Buddy around the neighborhood, always ensuring he gets ample exercise and social interaction. Their commitment to providing a loving and nurturing environment for their pet is evident in every interaction.
Last year, the Foxes faced a heartbreaking loss when their beloved Whiskers passed away after a long illness. The grief they experienced was profound, but it also demonstrated their deep emotional connection and commitment to their pets. They ensured Whiskers received the best possible care during her illness, sparing no expense for veterinary treatments and medications. Their ability to cope with such loss and their dedication to the well-being of their pets is a testament to their readiness to welcome a newly rescued dog into their home.
Financial stability is another important aspect of the Foxes’ suitability for pet adoption. Both Mr. and Mrs. Fox have stable, well-paying jobs that allow them to provide for their pets without any financial strain. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary check-ups, and any additional care that a rescued dog might require. This financial security, combined with their genuine love for animals, makes them ideal candidates for adoption.
In conclusion, I cannot think of a more suitable family to adopt a rescued dog than Mr. and Mrs. Fox. Their unwavering love for animals, coupled with their proven track record of responsible pet ownership and financial stability, makes them the ideal candidates. Please feel free to contact me at (555) 654-3210 or [email protected] if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
Allan Moore
Letter 4: Friend Recommending for Country Club Membership
To Whom It May Concern,
As a proud member of Green Acres Country Club, I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for my dear friend, Jennifer Blake, who is applying for membership at our esteemed club. I have known Jennifer for over ten years, having met her through a local volunteer organization where we both actively participated. Our friendship has grown over the years, and I can confidently say that she would be an exceptional addition to our club community.
Jennifer possesses many qualities that make her an ideal candidate for membership. She is an outgoing, friendly, and sociable individual who effortlessly connects with people from all walks of life. Her ability to engage in meaningful conversations and her genuine interest in others make her a beloved figure in our community. For instance, during our time volunteering together, Jennifer often took the lead in organizing events, ensuring that everyone felt included and valued. Her enthusiasm and dedication were instrumental in the success of these events.
In addition to her interpersonal skills, Jennifer is a person of high integrity and reliability. She consistently demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to her commitments. Whether it’s managing her professional duties as a successful marketing manager or her personal engagements, she approaches everything with the utmost diligence and professionalism. I recall a time when Jennifer single-handedly managed a charity gala, handling everything from logistics to guest relations, ensuring the event was a grand success.
Furthermore, Jennifer is an avid golfer and tennis player. She has participated in several local tournaments and has always been a fair and spirited competitor. Her passion for these sports, coupled with her sportsmanship, will undoubtedly contribute positively to our club’s athletic community. She is not only a skilled player but also someone who promotes camaraderie and team spirit among her peers.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Jennifer Blake for membership at Green Acres Country Club. Her outstanding character, dedication, and enthusiasm make her a perfect fit for our community. I am confident that she will bring a positive and vibrant energy to our club. Should you require any further information, please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Angela Hall
Who to Request
Choose someone who knows you well, can confidently vouch for your positive traits and skills, and is a good writer. Ideal candidates include:
- Close friends and neighbors;
- Family members;
- Academic advisors, professors, or teachers;
- Coworkers;
- Coaches or group leaders from organizations such as youth groups, charity groups, or extracurricular activities.
How to Request
- Meet in person if possible. Explain to your potential recommender why you chose them to write the letter for you and for what purpose the letter will be used. If they seem hesitant, consider asking someone else.
- If they say yes, clarify the letter’s focus with them. Clearly discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve with the letter. Ensure the recommendation aligns with your objectives and the specific requirements of the position or program.
- Help your letter writer identify the key qualities and achievements relevant to the opportunity. Discuss your past job performances, experiences, and personal attributes such as leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Share your resume or a list of achievements (if applicable) to provide detailed information about your skills, experiences, and accomplishments.
- Example:
Hi [Recommender’s Name], thank you for taking the time to meet with me.
I have an important request, and I believe you would be the perfect person to help me. I’m applying for [specific opportunity, e.g., a job, an adoption], and I need a personal reference letter. Would you be willing to write one for me?
I thought of you because [reason why you chose them, e.g., you’ve known me for a long time, you’re familiar with my work/skills/character]. Your perspective would mean a lot to the selection committee.
The letter would need to focus on [specific qualities or experiences, e.g., my leadership skills, teamwork, dedication]. I can provide my resume and a list of my achievements to help you with details. If you need any more information or specific points to include, I’d be happy to discuss them or provide additional details. I want to make this as easy as possible for you.
The application deadline is [date], so I would need the letter by [earlier date]. Would that be feasible for you?
Thank you so much for considering this. Your support means a lot to me, and I really appreciate your help.
- Check in with the person writing your recommendation to ensure they have all the required details and gently remind them of upcoming deadlines.
- After they submit your recommendation, express your gratitude with a thank-you note.
How to Write
The personal recommendation letter should include:
- A clear and concise introduction that establishes your relationship with the candidate;
- One to two body paragraphs on the candidate’s specific traits and qualities with concrete examples; and
- A conclusion that reiterates your endorsement.
When writing, maintain a professional tone while adding personal anecdotes to highlight the candidate’s qualities. Use a standard business letter format with a clear font like Arial or Times New Roman in twelve-point size. Keep the letter concise and ensure every paragraph relates directly to the candidate’s qualifications and the position they are applying for.
Step 1: Introduction
Begin your personal letter of recommendation with a friendly and professional salutation and establish your enthusiasm to endorse the candidate. If you don’t know the recipient or are writing a general letter, address the letter “To Whom It May Concern.”
Clearly state your relationship with the candidate and how long you have known them. This sets a strong foundation for the forthcoming endorsements.
Step 2: Body Paragraphs
Focus on specific qualities of the candidate pertinent to the opportunity they are pursuing. Use concrete examples to illustrate these traits, such as resilience, consistency in performance, and the ability to engage positively with others.
Include any memorable, inspiring, or emotional personal story about the candidate. This can enhance the emotional appeal and make the recommendation have a lasting impact.
Step 3: Conclusion
End the letter by reiterating your strong endorsement of the candidate. Summarize their key qualities and express your genuine recommendation without reservation. Offer your contact information for further correspondence, which provides an opportunity for the recipient to follow up if more information is needed.
Step 4: Proofread and Submit
Ensure the letter is free of grammatical errors and typos. This not only reflects your attention to detail but also enhances the professionalism of the document. Proofreading should cover basic grammar and punctuation, the correct use of singular and plural forms, subject-verb agreement, and consistent verb tenses.
Carefully adhere to any specific instructions provided for submitting the recommendation.
Personal Letter of Recommendation Sample
Copy the free sample or download a customizable personal letter of recommendation template below.
___________________ [Recommender’s Name]
______________________________________ [Recommender’s Address]
______________________________________ [City, State, Zip Code]
___________________ [Date]
___________________ [Recipient’s Name]
___________________ [Recipient’s Entity/Institution]
______________________________________ [Recipient’s Address]
______________________________________ [City, State, Zip Code]
Dear ___________________ [Recipient’s Name],
My name is ___________________ [Recommender’s Name], and I am delighted to recommend ___________________ [Candidate’s Name] for ___________________ [Applied Program/Position] at ___________________ [Applied Entity/Institution]. Having known ___________________ [Candidate’s Name] for _____________ [Time known] as their ___________________ [Relation to Candidate], I have had the privilege to witness their growth and development firsthand.
During their tenure, ___________________ [Candidate’s Name] consistently demonstrated ___________________ [Key Attribute/Skill of the Applicant]. One particular instance that stands out was their commitment to ______________________________________ [Description of Achievement], which directly led to ______________________________________ [Result of Achievement].
Furthermore, ___________________ [Candidate’s Name] has shown exceptional ______________________________________ [Another Key Attribute/Skill] through their involvement in ______________________________________ [Another Description of Achievement]. Their efforts were instrumental in achieving ______________________________________ [Result of Achievement].
Additionally, ___________________ [Candidate’s Name]’s aptitude for ______________________________________ [Another Attribute/Skill] was clearly evident in their contributions to ______________________________________ [Another Description of Achievement]. Their involvement was pivotal, resulting in ______________________________________ [Result of Achievement].
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse ___________________ [Candidate’s Name] for their application for ___________________ [Applied Program/Position]. I have no doubt that they will continue to grow, excel, and inspire others in their future endeavors.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at ___________________ [Recommender’s Phone Number] or ___________________ [Recommender’s Email] should you require any further information or wish to discuss ___________________ [Candidate’s Name]’s qualifications in more detail.
Sincerely,
___________________ [Recommender’s Name]
___________________ [Recommender’s Position/Title]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a friend write a personal letter of recommendation?
Yes, a friend can write a personal letter of recommendation as long as they can provide an objective assessment of your character, skills, and qualities.
Can a letter of recommendation be used multiple times?
A letter of recommendation can be used multiple times if you’re submitting to multiple recipients with similar requirements. However, it’s advisable to modify the letter to fit the specific opportunity you’re seeking if the requirements vary.
What is the difference between personal letters of recommendation and personal reference letters?
Personal reference letters are generally more generic, with no targeted opportunities. Personal letters of recommendation, however, are tailored to specific opportunities or applications, providing a targeted endorsement of traits and qualifications.
