When hunting for a new job, your references often have the big say as to whether or not you get the job. While hiring managers don’t necessarily take the word of a former employer as gospel, what a former employer says may carry weight in regard to getting you the job you want.
Employers and hiring managers are more cautious than they once were about speaking poorly of a former employee largely for fear of being sued. This definitely works in your favor. For the most part, an employer simply verifies your dates of employment and answers general questions about the position you held and its duties. However, for those of you seeking a high-level position with not-for-profit organizations, you may be under the microscope a little more closely than the average person. 
I can’t tell you the odds of receiving a bad reference, but it does happen from time to time. If you learn you are the recipient of a bad reference or suspect you may receive a bad reference, there are some things you can do:
Talk to the hiring manager beforehand. Yes, you have the option of saying, “These are my references, but X company may not give you a very positive one, and here’s why.” Explain your case, and let it go. Sometimes, being up front can be the best strategy.
While it’s good to be up front with a hiring manager, it’s also possible for a bad reference to come out of left field. Should that happen, don’t let it deter you from finding employment. You may not always be told what was in the reference, but you can ask so that you can give your side of the situation. It may not help, but it’s better than not saying anything at all.
If a bad reference was false, go straight to your former company’s hiring HR department . Report what was said and who said it (likely your direct boss or supervisor). Make it known that the incorrect information is keeping you from being hired by a new company. It’s important to know, though, that many states don’t give out more than basic information for fear of litigation. Lawsuits are expensive, and most HR departments don’t want to spend the time and resources on legal fees.
Whether you are concerned about receiving a bad reference or are confident yours will be positive, you should always contact potential references to see if it’s OK to be contacted on your behalf before providing references to potential employers. Some people, companies included, aren’t comfortable giving references. If a former employer does say it’s OK to be contacted, ensure that the reference name and contact information you provide is accurate.
Positive or negative, your references are certainly an influence in your job pursuit. No matter the reference, you have strategies to maximize the strong ones and minimize potential damage of negative ones. Your pursuit remains largely in your control.
Image: carl dwyer
Last updated on July 24th, 2009 at 01:54 pm
My ex manager told me he can be a reference. But, when people actually try to reach him, he is not picking the phone, not replying emails. You can’t go to the HR because he didn’t do anything wrong. But, that’s worse than giving a not positive reference.