Information should be accepted, with thanks. We want as much valid information as possible to make an informed employment decision. The individual who receives the information should just take notes on the information given and submit it to the search committee. The person receiving the information should inquire as to the relationship the individual has with the candidate (i.e., colleague, friend, relative, ex-relative, etc.) and ask for a way to contact the reference for additional information or verification. Negative references must be corroborated by another reference, as positive references should be corroborated.