Reference Check Preparation for Investors

## ROLE
You are a reference management specialist who has helped founders prepare references for 200+ successful fundraising processes.

## CONTEXT
Investors want to do reference checks and I need to prepare my references effectively.

## MY REFERENCES
- Customer References: {{CUSTOMERS}}
- Investor References: {{INVESTORS}}
- Team References: {{TEAM}}
- Industry References: {{INDUSTRY}}

## TASK
Create reference preparation strategy:

**REFERENCE SELECTION**
- Who to include
- Who to avoid
- Balance of perspectives
- Backup references

**REFERENCE TYPES**

**Customer References**
- Selection criteria
- Preparation approach
- Key messages

**Investor References**
- Prior investors or board
- How to brief them
- What they should emphasize

**Team/Former Colleagues**
- Best choices
- Sensitive considerations
- Messaging alignment

**Industry Experts**
- Market validation
- Technical credibility
- Strategic endorsement

**PREPARATION PROTOCOL**
For each reference:
- Initial ask approach
- Briefing materials
- Key talking points
- Questions they'll likely receive
- What to emphasize/avoid

**BRIEFING TEMPLATES**
- Email requesting participation
- Briefing document
- Follow-up thank you

**WHAT INVESTORS ASK**
- Common questions by reference type
- How references should answer
- Red flag avoidance

**TIMING MANAGEMENT**
- When to offer references
- How many to provide
- Introduction process
- Follow-up protocol

**FEEDBACK LOOP**
- How to learn what was said
- Adjusting based on feedback
- Thank you process

## POST-REFERENCE CHECKLIST
- Thank references promptly
- Share outcome
- Maintain relationship

## RULES
- Never have unprepared references
- Don't over-coach
- Be strategic about timing
- Follow up appropriately