Who to ask to be a personal reference?

[sumi-na]

Hi All,

The Stephenson Harwood TC application asks for 3 references, academic, work and personal references. For the first two, I think I'm fine.

But I don't know what kind of relationship is best to ask for a personal reference. I don't think I want to ask a friend. And my colleagues at my part-time work were my friends before we started working there. Should I ask a colleague I not close with, or is there another relationship they're expecting when they say 'personal' reference?

Any insight appreciated!

 

[sxw517]

Found this on Michael Page:


'Personal references are commonly provided by teachers, lecturers, group or club leaders, neighbours, friends and family members. Those providing the reference should know you well and be able to give examples that back up statements about your character. While friends and family are acceptable referees, it is better for you to select someone who is not immediate family as their opinion may be construed as being biased'.

Maybe somebody you were in a society with at university, or a sports team, or somebody that you have volunteered with?

 

[sumi-na]

Found this on Michael Page:


'Personal references are commonly provided by teachers, lecturers, group or club leaders, neighbours, friends and family members. Those providing the reference should know you well and be able to give examples that back up statements about your character. While friends and family are acceptable referees, it is better for you to select someone who is not immediate family as their opinion may be construed as being biased'.

Maybe somebody you were in a society with at university, or a sports team, or somebody that you have volunteered with?

Thanks for this!

 

[laurabeaumont]

Hi @sumi-na ,

I would still ask for a personal reference from someone you know well from a professional setting. The info on Michael Page is correct - typically someone who knows you well and has witnessed your achievements/performance and can talk about those in enough detail. Friends and family are acceptable, but I would say a teacher, lecturer or club leader will have better knowledge of your abilities.

Hope this helps

 

[TCLA Community Assistant]

Someone who has known you for more than five years, and on a level that can talk about your character and personality. Ideally someone who works in a profession connected or related to the industry you are applying to, or who works in a professional/office working environment (eg manager level in the type of organisation that might be a client of the firm you are applying to). Alternatively someone in a recognised profession, eg teacher, nurse, accountant, surveyor, dentist, civil servant.