If a candidate collaborated closely with a senior colleague on a specific initiative at a former company, what facet of their ability can this lateral contact vouch for?
Answer
Specific skills, collaboration, and execution in a real-world setting
When direct supervisors are unavailable, looking horizontally or laterally within an organization yields valuable contacts like senior colleagues. These peers, having worked alongside the applicant on concrete projects or initiatives, can provide direct testimony regarding the applicant's functional abilities in a practical environment. They are capable of confirming specific technical or soft skills used during the collaboration, how effectively the applicant worked within a team structure, and their ability to execute defined tasks according to established professional standards, offering a valuable perspective that complements formal supervisory feedback.
Related Questions
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