She has given us your name as an individual who can comment on her qualifications and professional experience related to the posi tion. A description of the position is enclosed. We would appreciate a letter from you that addresses Dr. Jones' qualifications and ability to perform the duties outlined in the position description. It will also be helpful if you can indicate in what capacit y you have known Dr. Jones.
Reference is asked to address specific qualifications of candidate to perform duties.
The relationship of the reference to the candidate may indicate to some extent the weight that should be given to the recommendation. The reference is given a date by which the recommendation is needed. A candidate should not be eliminated because of one poor reference. However, if several letters are negative, they should be investigated by telephone with the references. Letters should be read carefully to make sure the references carefully assessed the candidate's qualifications and skills.