[Patricia]

I have a hard time referring someone unless I know they are a good worker. I find it is a reflection on me who I refer. I try to refer people I know and have respect for them and know they have good work habits. What if someone asks you to refer them and you can't do it because you do not feel you can in good conscience? Perhaps you know this person is late all the time or is not a good worker. How do you say you can't be their reference?

[NicoleMiller]

I have had this happen in the past and it does put you in a tough situation. Making a referral can be a reflection of you and is something to be conscious about.

I was honest with the requestor and explained that I was probably not the best reference for them. I recommended they ask their current/previous bosses or people they had worked close to on certain projects. Selecting references based on projects that relate to the job they applied for, gives the reference the ability to speak in detail about their capabilities.

[Patricia]

Thanks Nicole. I think honesty (as hard as it can be to give and to hear sometimes) is the best policy.

I was thinking also about recommending someone for a job. My employer likes it if they can get a referral from an existing employee for a job that has been posted. I have often had people e-mail me and ask me if something comes up in my office to let them know, but I know I could never recommend them for the job.

In this case it is easier because they are not aware of the positions so they don't know I am not recommending them.