<p>In your opinion, how long should you know someone before asking them to be a reference for you?</p>
<p>I’ve heard the number 6 months, but I don’t recall where. I think it also depends on the type of thing. (i.e., a boss from a summer internship could be a good recommendation even though you were only there 3-4 months)</p>
<p>Really, it depends on what kind of reference.</p>
<p>If it’s a professional reference for a job, you just need to use someone who has seen you in action and who knows what you have done at a very high level (i.e. did this person work at this company at this time?). If it’s a personal reference, use someone who knows things about you that most people don’t - obviously they won’t say those things, but you would want someone who knows you well and can speak to your true character.</p>
<p>Don’t forget that references are not recommendations. As someone’s reference, you are only asked to respond to questions when people seek you out; a recommendation requires you to anticipate questions and proactively talk about a person.</p>