I've been actively searching for new job opportunities. Most of the job applications I've come across ask if they can contact my current employer. Typically, I wouldn't have an issue with choosing "yes" for this option. However, this time I'm not sure if it's a wise choice, especially since my manager is not too fond of me as I often call him out on his cr-p. But if I choose "no," it might raise suspicions with the company I'm applying to. What's the best thing to do?
11 replies (most recent on top)
Put yes and put the 1-800 number. It will go to a black hole.
So was the lesson learned here that you shouldn’t be a brat next time? Or something else?
In reality everyone in the market place knows whats happening in 3M. How they are letting go of thousands And their poor offboarding processes. So dont worry too much. Get some manager who have worked with you provide some inputs if needed.
At will means either you or your employer can terminate the employment.
Answer no is OK.
Wow, and you dont know how to handle it? Any courses for sheeple?
Its common for job seekers not to allow prospective employers to contact their current employers. Most people do not want to tip off their employers that they're seeking other opportunities. Especially in this instance, chances are high Mother Mining will do you dirty and cold. Why give them a heads up you're looking for greener pastures?
Karma right?
You are absolutely incorrect.
The reality is that most employers don't want to talk about their employees because they could be at risk of a libel lawsuit.
However, there are ways for both the new company and the old to get around that. The questions "Are they eligible for rehire?" And "Would you rehire this person?" will be enough to know if a person is a decent employee.
And from the current employer's side, "I have nothing good I wish to share about this person" sends a pretty clear message.
Of course, if your current employer doesn't like you, helping you get another job is a great way to send you packing without being on the hook for unemployment.
In the US, your first sentence is flat wrong, your second sentence is correct.
First Sentence:
An employer is legally allowed to give a references, both positive or negative, on current and past employees. References are still quite commonly used in some occupations (higher education for example). There is a lot of information employers cannot share without employee permission, such as health or financial information. Any law providing a blanket ban on all references would run afoul of the First Amendment.
Second Sentence:
Most employers chose a 'neutral' or no-reference company policy (not law) to avoid any potential lawsuits, such as defamation, for a negative reference. Basically 3M, and many other employers, will confirm the dates of employment and job title, and will provide salary information if the employee approves.
As a people leader, I have handled it this way: If asked for a reference and I can give a positive one, I will do so unofficially. If asked and I can't honestly give a positive reference I will cite policy and be neutral.
By law, your previous Manager or HR representative can only confirm, that yes you were a former employee of 3M.
To much potential litigation and/or Labor Law violations to stated anything else.
I will say, 9/10 times they never actually reach out to your managers. Only time this happens if you are applying for some sort of government job for background checks. Again I wouldn't worry.