Would you be a reference for me?

When and why do you put your reputation on the line for someone else?

Recently, a former peer asked me to be a professional reference. Something I don't take lightly because, well, I have been burned.

In this case, I had full confidence in the person as we had worked together for a number of years and I had watched her grasp the technical concepts of our products and services at RedSky Technologies. As sometimes happens, I received a telephone call to discuss my thoughts and opinions on why she would be a good candidate. It was important for me to understand the role so I could offer specific examples to support my position.

In most cases, the people that have asked for references have earned my trust and respect. In the few cases where I did not feel that I would be a good reference, I had to stand up and explain why. That's been hard. But in retrospect, in each case, it was the right thing to do for both parties.

I get to say that because my contribution to the hiring process here, especially with management candidates, is to check references. I actually enjoy doing it. I get to find out about the soft skills side of the candidate. My favorite response on one reference check was "I wish he had married my daughter!" I have also experienced the opposite, where the reference is only willing to verify employment dates and title. That's never a good sign.

Happily, what I thought would be a great fit has turned out to be a great fit.