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Referrals
A referral directs an advisee to a source of information or help. When an advisee requests assistance an advisor is unable to give, the advisor can still be helpful by making an appropriate referral. Such referrals are relatively easy because the advisee is the initiator.
There are times, however, when the advisor believes the advisee needs help and the student does not agree. This situation is likely to occur when the advisee has a problem which causes him anxiety or conflict. Referrals in these cases are often difficult for the advisor, the advisee and the individual to whom the referral is made.
When should a referral be made?
A referral should be considered whenever an advisee has a question or problem which is beyond the advisor’s perceived area of competence or responsibility.
How to make a referral
It is desirable to discuss a possible referral with an advisee. The advisor and student should be clear on why a referral is being suggested and the advisor should tell the student what he knows about the available service, its functions and limitations.
If the referral requires an appointment, it is preferable for the advisor or the student to make this appointment while both are in the advisor’s office, rather than leaving the matter entirely up to the advisee to do at some later date. This is especially true if the reason for referral involves some issue which is causing the advisee embarrassment or anxiety. This procedure not only alerts the referral resource, but also indicates to the student the advisor’s belief that the referral is of some importance.
The advisor might request the student to check back after the student has had an interview with the referral source. This request not only suggests to the advisee that the advisor believes the matter is of some importance but also indicates that the advisor is not simply “washing his hands” of the problem.
If an advisee is reluctant to accept a referral, suggest that he or she see the referral as provisional and exploratory. In this way, advisees know they are not obligating themselves beyond an initial contact with the referral source. |
