Personal Reference Letter Template

What is a personal reference letter and why would you need to write such a letter? Any personal reference letter sample will tell you that such a letter works as a character recommendation letter to inform someone about the positive qualities that a person possesses. There are several instances in which such a letter can be very important, especially for employment. A personal reference letter can also be important in case you are planning to adopt a kid, applying to be a foster care parent, in court hearings, scholarships, etc. While generally reference letters from family members are not accepted there are certain exceptions to this. In order to draft a good personal recommendation letter, it is important to be aware of the proper format. There are many websites that will provide you with free templates and samples to help you with this task at hand.

If you want to learn how to write a personal reference letter, there are certain important things that you need to keep in mind. Any sample letter will always harp on the fact that while writing a letter of recommendation it is important to keep it genuine. It is true that the letter serves the purpose of highlighting the good points of an individual but it is easy to look through exaggerated praise. Avoid doing so as it may actually hamper your friend's chances. It is important to mention what are the key qualities that make up a person's skill set and how they are relevant to the situation at hand. Focus on the good points and avoid flaws. Divide the letter into neat and thoughtful paragraphs so that the letter is easy to read. While learning how to write a personal reference letter of recommendation for someone remember that while the tone of the letter may be informal, the format should be one of a formal letter. If you are unsure of whom to address the letter, add the salutations as to whomsoever it may concern. Once you have written the letter it is important to go through the letter and check for any errors.

Template for Personal Reference Letter

Before referring to sample personal letters of recommendation, it is a good idea to look up for free template that serve as a guideline for a proper draft. Following a template is a much better way of learning how to write a reference letter as examples of personal reference letters are generally situation specific.

Your Name Your Address Date: Name of Addressee Name of Organization Address Salutations/Greetings Dear Mr./Ms In the first paragraph of the letter introduce yourself to the addressee. It is important to give some details about yourself like who you are and what you do. It is in this paragraph that you will mention how you know the person you are recommending. All these details are important as it will make clear to the addressee how you are in a position to make a recommendation for the person in question. The second paragraph should detail the skills and qualities of the person you are recommending. It is important that the qualities you mention have a bearing on the reason you are writing this letter of recommendation. You should mention how well you know the person and for how long you have known him. This will establish the long relationship you have had with the person you are recommending. In the last paragraph, thank the person and end on a hopeful note that the person you are recommending is successful in his endeavor. Also provide the addressee with your contact details so that he or she can contact you if necessary. Valediction Yours sincerely, (Signature) Your Name

Referring to this template and then taking a look at a sample will ensure that you are clear about how to draft a letter of recommendation for a friend. So whether you are referring a person for a scholarship or recommending someone as parents for adopting a child, writing a proper personal reference letter will be extremely easy for you.