Why don't relatives and friends make good references?

Relatives and friends often lack objectivity when providing references, as their personal connections may bias their assessments of your skills and work ethic. They may emphasize your strengths while downplaying weaknesses, which can lead to an unrealistic portrayal. Additionally, employers typically prefer references who can provide professional insights and assessments, which friends and family may not be equipped to do effectively. This can ultimately undermine the credibility of the reference.