# Explain How You Know a Professional Referrer Explain the professional context in which you know a referrer, without naming either person or relying on the relationship alone as evidence of fit. ### Constraints & Assumptions - Use only the actual relationship and shared work context. - Remove school names, private names, and identifying project details. - Connect the relationship to what the referrer could credibly observe. ### Clarifying Questions to Ask - How long and in what setting did you work together? - What work did the referrer directly observe? - Why was that person positioned to assess your fit? ```hint Establish evidence Describe the shared context and observable work rather than emphasizing personal closeness. ``` ### What a Strong Answer Covers - A concise, de-identified relationship description. - Relevant collaboration and responsibilities. - What the referrer could credibly say about your work. - A transition back to your independent qualifications. ### Follow-up Questions 1. What if the referrer was a classmate but never a coworker? 2. How would you answer if the recruiter asks what project you shared?