2. Toni has been a waitress for seven years. One of her regular customers, a person she waits on twice a week, is a local well known entrepreneur. Over the years, Toni has become friendly with him, and family. Toni feels that he knows her character and her work abilities. She is applying for a job in a different field and wants to ask him to serve as a reference for her. GOODBAD

4. Toni’s customer is a professional, has observed the quality of her work for a long time, and is knowledgeable about her personal qualities.

5. Bob attends church services every Sunday. After each service, he makes sure to shake hands and speak with the minister as he leaves the church. As a faithful member of the congregation, Bob believes the minister will give him a good reference. GOODBAD

7. Although ministers are usually respected members of the community, Bob’s minister has no first-hand knowledge of Bob’s skills, experience or personal characteristics.

8. Larry doesn’t get along with the owner at Period Dot Com Software, so he asks his department manager, who has complimented his work, and one of his co-workers, who has a good opinion of him, if they will serve as a reference. GOODBAD

10. If Larry’s boss has negative feelings toward him, then it is best to ask a supervisor who is knowledgeable about Larry’s skills and has a good opinion of him.

11. Ivana has no work experience so she asks her boyfriend to be a reference. She’s sure he will say nice things about her. GOODBAD

13. Ivana’s boyfriend may say good things about her, but they may not be what an employer is interested in hearing about.

14. Colin, who is in high school, wants a part time job and is compiling the information he needs for job applications. For the last four summers, he has worked for an elderly couple who live on his street. He maintains their lawn and flower beds and helps them make small repairs around the house. He wants to ask them to provide a reference for him. GOODBAD

16. Colin’s neighbors have direct knowledge of his skills, abilities and work ethic.