My answer, not really, but what that part of me that flies off the handle feels like answering: Dear interviewer, This is not a reference. I don't respond to

My answer, not really, but what that part of me that flies off the handle feels like answering: Dear interviewer, This is not a reference. I don't respond to douchebags with manipulative reference requests. Thanks for letting me know that Jane Doe is in the job market. In the case that Jane is indeed exceptional (and she might be for all you know, or you wouldn't be annoying me at my place of work), I have done the following: I have just written to all my friends in a position to hire developers to let them know there is an exceptional candidate doing the rounds, and they should call her for an interview asap. In fact, I may have done this even if I don't think Jane is exceptional. By definition, only a few people can be exceptional. Some developers are just solid and dependably conscientious, creative and productive, and I also hire and recommend those whenever I can, because in doing that I help two people: the developer and the employer. Which is also why I would never give you references for good people. The industry needs good people, and good people need good places to work. Which isn't your shop. Good developers deserve better than your manipulative sports-metaphor elitism. Regards, etc. [edit: took out an unprofessional bit of invective at the end]