<p>I am considering applying for an open position in a different department of the university where I work. The job posting requests three professional references. I have worked closely over the years with several people in this department, and they would be my first choices to serve as references for me, but I’m wondering if asking them to do so in this case would be putting them (or me) in an awkward position. I can’t really think of a reason why this should be so, but I also know that I am prone to miss etiquette issues and conflicts of interest that are readily apparent to others. Obviously if any of these people are on the search committee, they would have to decline, but aside from that, is there a reason why I should hesitate to ask them?</p>
<p>“I’m thinking of applying for X job. What do you think about it? Do you think I’d be a good fit for the job?” (Conversation ensues.) “Oh, thanks so much for your advice. Would you be comfortable writing a reference for me?”</p>