That's a reasonable position. But I've seen too many cases of people being left behind in the reference game due to simply being unusual in some way: shy/awkwa

That's a reasonable position. But I've seen too many cases of people being left behind in the reference game due to simply being unusual in some way: shy/awkward, wrong demographics, uneven career, etc. I believe in redemption and in judging people where they're at right now. If they can demonstrate their current skills and accomplishments, lack of refs shouldn't hold them back. As for reputation, that ship has sailed. My refs aren't worth much, but for someone who just needs the box checked, I'm happy to do it. (Most of my refs are for industry, if that makes you feel any better.)