Peer Recommendation

[Enviroman]

I have a peer recommender who I supported over three years on projects. He recently got promoted to a director level position (now same level as my manager). So, I have two directors and one VP writing my recommendation letters. Does the age (45+yrs)/title of the peer have any bearing on the an application? This recommender has got great stories to write about me, but we have not worked together in the last 1.5years. I am confused as to whether to get a recommendation from him or from a much younger engineer who I am currently working with.

Any thoughts or insights would be very much appreciated.

Thanks,
Sandy

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi,

This situation isn't really black and white. I've often worked with clients who have peers who have moved on to different roles, but not as often with those whose peer is now promoted above and managing them. I am inclined to think you can use this person, but he'll need to be sure that he writes the recommendation based on the work you two did together as peers 1.5 years ago. This could make the recommendation itself a bit outdated, which might not make him the best choice.

Best,

Stacey

[Enviroman]

Thank you for your observations, Stacey. The good news for me is that this gentleman is not promoted to manage me. I played a key role in his success and promotion. We don't work on a team on a daily basis any more as he has moved to Europe. However, there are some very strong anecdotes that could make the letter stand out. We also have had some recent dealing (two - three months ago), so I think that 1.5years gap can be managed as well.

I had originally planned on using a current peer, but quickly realized that we dont have as strong a relationship as I have with my former peer.

Thanks
Enviroman

[Stacey Oyler]

Thanks for clarifying. I think this sounds like the right person for your recommendation. It sounds like he'll have some good anecdotes to offer up.

Best of luck!

Stacey