What is a Personal Reference? Understanding the Basics
A personal reference is a type of recommendation letter provided by someone with whom you have a personal relationship, rather than a professional one. Personal references can be used as a way to provide additional information about an individual’s character, skills, and abilities to a potential employer or other interested parties. Here’s everything you need to know to understand the basics of personal references.
Why Are Personal References Important?
Personal references can be an essential tool to help potential employers or other interested parties understand an individual’s character traits that cannot be derived from their professional experience and qualifications. They provide a more well-rounded and accurate picture of an individual and can help to differentiate them from other candidates with similar professional experiences.
Who Should You Ask to Be a Personal Reference?
When choosing who to ask for a personal reference, it’s important to pick someone who knows you well enough to speak to your strengths and abilities. This can include colleagues, former employers, professors, or other individuals who have worked closely with you in the past.
What Information Should a Personal Reference Include?
A personal reference should include a brief introduction about the relationship between the individual and the person providing the reference. This should be followed by a discussion of the individual’s strengths, abilities, and character traits, including examples of situations where they have demonstrated these qualities. The personal reference should conclude with a recommendation for the individual in regards to the position or opportunity they are seeking.
How Should You Approach Asking for a Personal Reference?
When requesting a personal reference, it’s important to be polite and respectful of the person’s time. Provide them with as much information as possible about the position or opportunity you are seeking and why you believe they would be a suitable reference. It can also be helpful to provide them with a copy of your resume or CV so they have a better understanding of your professional experience and qualifications.
Conclusion
A personal reference can be a valuable tool in providing potential employers or other interested parties with a well-rounded understanding of an individual’s skills, abilities, and character traits. By understanding the basics of personal references, individuals can utilize them to strengthen their job applications and other opportunities. Remember to choose a personal reference who knows you well, provide them with ample information, and approach the request with respect and professionalism.
