Hiring without references

[Red]

Originally Posted by Newton

Someone hit me up on icq asking for work but couldn't provide references, then got pissed at ME for them not having references .. lol

Would you hire anyone without references?

Absolutely not. I never did it out in the real world and I wouldn't do it for this business. If I writer wants to join the team I ask for samples of their work. If they tell me that besides stories, they've written paysite copy, or whatever, I always ask who they have written for.

If someone is upfront and reliable, they should have no problem giving a reference. If they do, that sends up a red flag immediately.