It's been a while since I've filled out a job application, so I could use some help with the "can we contact the previous employer" thing. I'm not sure what to put there. If I say yes and they do, my boss knows I'm looking for a new job, and I don't see that ending well. If I say no, they're bound to wonder why and will probably toss my application in the trash.
What do people do in a situation like this?
key word is previous–i.e., you no longer are employed by that company.
Put in a cover letter that you can provide references at current employer – colleagues that have your back and know the situation–they may need you as a reference also
You are spot on! Any real hiring manager knows this and wouldn’t ask! They will do their homework and contact references! Craziest question to ever be asked on an application form! Hiring managers that would do this to people should be the non-leaders shown the door!
Don’t think too much about it. If you are currently employed in the company, Ofcourse you say no! Who is their right mind would put down yes on contact your boss. You don’t want your employer to know you are looking for another job. And any hiring manager in their right mind wouldn’t think about reaching out to your current boss.
Put no and discuss in the interview. No interview means it is not worth your time for anything other then no.
I have found that often the “will discuss” is not an option.... usually a text field of yes/no....pick one or the other....
Those that do not look past a No answer, I tend to find them looking down their checklist, marking the boxes, and ending up with the same types.... the types that tell you what you think you want to hear as long as they pose no threat to the chain of BS.... and God forbid if they are competition....
Sounds like a GE Crotonville brainwash style to me....
I prefer truth, bold, and honest answers when I hire....
Will discuss is the right answer. Fine to express reservations and decline but I wouldn't talk to a candidate that didn't even understand that a tactful handling of the situation is called for.
Choose " No".
I've always been told to put "Will discuss" in that entry.
Say no.... just by them wanting to contact your previous employer shows me all I need to know .... they are called references for a reason... and besides sometimes you just have to stand for something that potentially could get you fired... like s-xual harassment? Not sure I would want to work for a company that asks this ....
Say no.