This question is about reference request email.

Can family members be references?

By Zippia Team - Mar. 27, 2023

No, family members generally cannot be references. Unless you are specifically asked for personal or character references, employers want references who can inform them about your professional experience and aptitude.

Even if you have family members who work in your field or who you have worked with in the past, it is still best to choose references who do not have a personal connection to you.

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