Job reference?

[di1411]

A friend has asked me to write a reference for him, which he could use in general but also for a job at the place where I work. Although I have no qualms about him as a friend and I know him to be a hard worker, I feel a bit awkward about it as he is a bit of a "character" and I don't know to what extent he would fit into my workplace. I also don't know what is the etiquette of writing a reference for a friend for your workplace, and how it might affect me if he got the job and it didn't work out.

I also am aware of some problems at my organisation that aren't public knowledge, but which might mean that it wouldn't be a wise move for him to take the job anyway. I feel I'm in a minefield and would welcome any advice offered!

[Cheekystar]

I wouldm't write a reference for a friend, espcially not if there coming to my org, in some ways its unethical and could put you in an awkward situation, most orgs ask new canidates if there know people who work there, it'd be better if he got one from his last place of work, or someone independent.
Maybe say this to him, and as if you know that something may happen to your org suggest he apply else where too, don't put yourself in a situation you may regret