Guidance on how to write a good reference

In the digital Reference Check process, your insights as a referee are invaluable. They provide prospective employers with essential information about a candidate's suitability for a role. 

All references shared through our platform must follow the guidelines outlined below.

Be specific, factual, accurate and objective: Base your assessment of the candidate on truthful, direct observations of the candidate’s performance. Provide only accurate information you can verify. Don't misrepresent the candidate's capabilities or qualities. Focus on professional behaviours and use specific examples. 

• Acceptable: ‘James consistently met project deadlines and introduced a new workflow that increased team productivity by 20%.’
• Not acceptable: ‘I heard from a colleague that James was difficult to work with.’ or 'James is proficient in Excel' when you have not observed him using Excel. 

Focus on relevant work experience: Discuss work-related skills, achievements and behaviours where you have first-hand knowledge. Avoid generalised statements and provide clear and detailed feedback.

• Acceptable: ‘Helen’s communication skills facilitated better collaboration among team members and improved client satisfaction.’
• Not acceptable: ‘She's an intelligent person, so she’s likely good at most jobs.’

Avoid discrimination: Do not mention personal attributes or non-work-related information such as age, gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or family status.

• Acceptable: ‘Sofia’s analytical skills significantly contributed to our team’s success.’
• Not acceptable: ‘Despite her age, she managed to keep up with the team.’

Respect privacy: Do not include any sensitive personal information in your reference, including personal details, medical information or private matters unrelated to work performance.

• Acceptable: ‘Priya managed sensitive client projects with professionalism.’
• Not acceptable: ‘Priya frequently took sick days due to ongoing medical issues’

Maintain confidentiality: Do not disclose proprietary or confidential business information in your reference.

• Acceptable: ‘Imran led a critical project that significantly grew the company.’
• Not acceptable: ‘Imran led analysis to support a future sale of our business.’

Exercise caution: If unsure about certain information, err on the side of caution. Only provide information you would be comfortable sharing directly with the candidate. Remember that candidates may be able to access their references.

• Acceptable: ‘I don’t have enough information to comment on that aspect. of Luca's work’
• Not acceptable: ‘I suspect Luca was involved in dubious activities at work, but I'm not entirely sure.’

A good reference offers a balanced, truthful view of the candidate’s professional capabilities and suitability for their potential new role.