I have been debating whether to refer an old coworker for an open role on my team at my new company. We worked well together before, but now it feels like more is on the line since my name would be attached to it. Part of me thinks it could be a great move for both of us, but part of me wonders what happens if it does not work out. Would you refer someone you used to work with, and what do you see as the biggest upside or risk?

Wow that's a good question, so many variables can help you with making that decision. First ask yourself why did you include risk? I feel like yes I would refer someone I used to work with to a position especially if I know their work ethics (great for the job expectation) and would be a great fit with the company. They are the ones that will get the job not you, they will be the one to keep that job not you. An referral is just what it is a referral it is all on that pacific person now. You should never feel bad about a good decision and the company should never hold you responsible for a risk. Hope this helps you.

I referred an old colleague of mine from a previous company. She came in and she was great at a job, and everyone was really happy. I found another ally in my company, so it actually ended up working in the positive for me.

I would say go for it. If you trust them and think they're good, great. If they underperform, nobody will blame you because a referral is only a fractional part of why they hire someone.

Are you confident in their ability to do the job? That's really what it boils down to. If you are, it's mutually beneficial: they get a job, you look good for helping find a capable candidate. The risk/downside really only comes into play if they screw up in a big way. And if you're confident in their abilities, that really shouldn't be a concern.

Depending on the industry/role it might not matter. If they're just going in low level it's fine but if it's like a project manager it's a different story...

Referrals always feel personal because your reputation walks in with them. If I trusted their work ethic and attitude before, I’d refer them but be honest about what the role needs now so there are no surprises. Biggest upside is bringing in someone reliable. Biggest risk is if they underperform and it reflects on your judgment. If you would still vouch for them in a tough meeting, that’s usually your answer.

I hired my sister in law. She is my lead in the field and has me if my most solid team members. I’m so blessed to have her on my team.

I've done it twice. First referral went extremely well, the manager couldn't have been happier with the employee. Second person, disaster. The lady was totally unhinged. There were no previous indicators, at all. Stole things. Lying was second nature to her. Finally she told a lie concerning a family member of the owner, and was terminated. I feared it would reflect on me, but that didn't happen. The management staff recognized that her bad behavior was her own doing, and no one else was responsible. When she first came, she of course started off as a model employee....I was totally embarrassed. Since that day, I've never referred another employee, anywhere.

I’ve done it and it’s worked out well for me because I’ve worked with these ppl for 1+ years and I am confident in their abilities. Upside could be everyone knowing your referred a stellar employee and maybe even getting a referral bonus.

I would hire the co-worker you worked with before

I have referred people I worked with before for positions, I have given references to my employers when they asked about a.person I worked with before, that applied for a position.and I have hired people I worked with before. If you feel comfortable withbthe person, know they can and will do the job and you work well with them I would refer them. In this scenario you already have a step up in the new person process, you already know each other and can work together. Acclimating the new hire can be one of the most stressful parts.of hiring people and you are ahead of that curve.

If I really knew the person and their work ethic, I would 100% recommend