When looking for factual information, what type of references are most useful?

The most useful type of references when searching for factual information is employer references. These references provide insights based on a candidate's actual work history, performance, and skills as observed by previous employers. They typically contain verifiable details about the candidate's responsibilities, accomplishments, and work ethic, which can help in making informed decisions.

Employer references are particularly valuable because they come from individuals who have directly supervised or managed the candidate, lending credibility to the information provided. They can clarify the nature of the individual’s roles, the impact they had in their position, and their overall contribution to the organization.

In contrast, personal references may offer subjective opinions about a candidate's character or abilities but lack specific factual details relevant to their professional qualifications. Character references focus on the individual's personal attributes rather than their professional capabilities. Networking references may provide connections or broader insights but do not typically contain detailed factual employment information. Hence, among these options, employer references stand out as the most reliable source for factual insights related to someone's professional background.