1.1 Define the precise nature of the enquiry in conjunction with the client

Table of Contents

1. The Reference Interview
2. Finding out what the client wants to know
   1. Finding out why the client wants the information
   2. Finishing off the reference interview
3. Spoken and written communication
4. Open and Closed Questions
5. Nature of information required
6. Constraints
7. Special needs
8. Further Information

Finishing off the reference interview

By the end of the reference interview you should be confident that the nature of the enquiry has been fully explored and that the information required by the client has been specifically defined.

The reference interview also provides the opportunity to establish any special needs of the client eg: visual or auditory impairment.

And finally, do remember to record contact details for the client. In the excitement of exploring the enquiry and establishing the client's precise needs, it is all too easy to forget this important information. So make sure that every reference interview ends by your recording name, address, telephone, fax, e-mail details, as appropriate. If you will be phoning the client, it is also polite to note when it is convenient for the client to receive your call.

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