Character References: Who Can You Ask When You Apply For A Job?

As a job seeker, the challenge you face is to prove your suitability to employers. The first step is a compelling cover letter and a CV that highlights your relevant skills and experience. After that, you have the chance to show that you’re a great fit when you attend an interview. The final stage is to provide references that support all of the above.While work references are common, character references can also be useful. A character reference, sometimes called a personal reference, is written by someone who knows you well outside work. It highlights your personality, values, and soft skills such as reliability, empathy, and teamwork.

So when would you need a character reference as part of a job application?

Why Would You Need A Character Reference?

There are several situations where the employer might ask you to provide a character reference, or where using one would be to your advantage. These include:

• Lack of work experience: If you’re a school leaver, a recent graduate, or you have limited work experience, a character reference can demonstrate your potential and personal qualities.
• Career change: If you’re switching career paths or industries, a character reference can highlight your transferable skills and relevant personal traits.
• Supporting your work references: Even if you can provide strong work references, a character reference can offer further proof of your suitability for the job.

Who Can Provide A Character Reference?

A character reference should come from someone who knows you well and can speak positively about you. That might be:

• teachers or lecturers:Whether from school, college, or university, teachers and lecturers can talk about how dedicated you were to your studies, how you interacted with others, and your relevant skills.
• mentors or coaches: Mentors or coaches can provide information on your personal growth, leadership abilities, and how well you work in a team.
• community leaders: If you volunteer or are active in the community, the relevant leaders can write about your commitment and character.
• family friends and neighbours who work in the industry: They can offer their views on your reliability, social skills, and fit for the job.

It’s important to choose someone who can provide examples of your character and who is willing to be contacted by potential employers.

Who Can’t Provide A Character Reference?

The purpose of a character reference is to provide trusted information on your suitability for the job. This is why certain people may be seen as too biased in your favour to give a reference. These include your:

• immediate family, such as your parents, brothers and sisters, and children
• spouse or partner
• close friends

It’s best to choose someone who can provide an unbiased assessment of your character, such as a teacher, mentor, or community leader.

How To Choose Your Character Referee

It’s important that you choose the right person to provide a character reference. Here are the three steps to make that decision.

1. Identify suitable candidates

Look for people who know you well, can speak positively about you, and can provide examples of your relevant skills and behaviour. Ideal candidates include teachers or lecturers, mentors or coaches, and community leaders.

2. Ask for permission

Before listing someone as a character referee, always check that they’re willing and able to do so. Let them know why you need the reference and what kind of job you are applying for. Share information about the job and the skills or qualities you’d like them to mention. Understand that they might be busy and give them enough time to prepare. Be respectful if the answer is no.

3. Keep your list of references up to date

It’s important that your list of references is up to date. Regularly check in with your referees to make sure their contact information is current. Let them know each time you put their name forward to provide a reference.

And don’t forget to always thank people who have provided a reference, whether you get the job or not.

Wrapping it up

Character references are just one more way to support your job applications. Take the time to build a reliable network of people who are happy to provide references and consider whether you can also provide references for them. Above all, be polite and grateful for any help you receive.