Hi everyone,
I'm hoping this is okay to post here since I am really trying to help a friend who's struggling to find work in this messed up environment we're in. They have been looking for months and have finally heard back from a place they really want.
They asked me to be a reference to them. I worked with this person, they are amazing to have as a colleague. The only feedback i might have is that they are very introverted and it can come across as not-confident in their work. But they are very capable and intelligent.
This reference is a form and asks for “areas of improvement.” Now i've always been told you never say anything bad. This almost cost me a job once because one of my references gave them one or two “areas for improvement.” Well apparently management took that as “they are not enough for this position.” Thankfully one of the managers I interviewed with knew me personally so they stepped in and my initial rejection was rescinded (work-place BS…I guess we're all supposed to be perfect now?).
I am really scared to mess this up for my friend…How do i answer this question? Please don't just respond “be honest” because i'm terrified of doing that (as per my experience above lol). I'd feel terrible if i fk this up for them.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!!