A letter of recommendation is a statement that recommends a person for some position or opportunity by stressing on his key qualities and advantages. Depending upon the letter objectives, there are three main types of letters- academic, employment and character recommendation letter. Of these three types, character reference letter is different from the other two as it is uncommon and is subjective in its purpose. On the other hand, the common recommendation letters namely, employment and academic reference letters are quite similar and specific in their purpose. Hence, for your reference, listed here are the differences between a character reference letter and the common letter of recommendation.
Character Letter of Recommendation
Meaning
This type of reference letter certifies the character of a candidate as good. The referrer gives a positive opinion about the personality, mannerisms and behavior of the candidate with the purpose of proving him virtuous and responsible.
Focus Point
The aim of the reference letter is to advocate the merits and morality of the candidate. It does not involve proving the candidate as an efficient student or employee but focuses on proving him a person with a decent and respectable character.
Contents
The letter includes those qualities of the candidate that prove him a better person. The candidate should come across as a person who values morals and believes in ethical conduct. The letter may also include an assurance that the candidate will not indulge in any unlawful or unethical activities.
Referrers
Any person who has been associated with the candidate for long can write the character reference letter. Candidates can select the referrer as per the purpose of the letter and the referrer's relevance with the purpose. The referrer could be friend, family, colleague, employer, associates, professors, landlord etc.
Purpose
A character letter of recommendation caters to different situations where the character or behavior of an individual is in question. It is required to prove the virtuousness and trustworthiness of an individual. Given below are the different reasons for which a character certificate is required:
Letter of Recommendation
Meaning
The common letter of recommendation is a statement by the referrer where they give a positive opinion about the candidate. It is an attempt to prove the candidate worthy and suitable for the opportunity. It lays an equal stress on the candidate's qualifications, experiences and character.
Focus Point
The aim of the letter is to convince the recipient that the candidate is an efficient student/employee and advocate his competence at performing the set duties perfectly. It should convince the recipients of the candidate's seriousness, dedication and sincerity towards his area of interest.
Contents
This letter format gives equal importance to the professional and personal details of the candidate. The letter includes details of qualifications, work experiences, skills and achievements of the candidate. It also gives an idea about the candidate's conduct and behavior at work by stating relevant examples.
Referrers
In case of an academic reference letter, anyone of the departmental head, project guide or the headmaster can recommend the candidate. On the other hand, the past employers should write the employment reference letter.
Purpose
These are common types of reference letters and are specific in its purpose. An academic reference letter is drafted with the purpose of gaining an admission in an institute whereas the purpose of an employment recommendation letter is to get a job.
Whether you are drafting a character, employment or academic reference letter, consider the differences in the purpose and format of each letter. This way the letter you draft will not only be impressive but also effective it achieving its objectives.