I am in the process of job hunting. The previous company that I interviewed with called my previous employer and she gave me a HORRIBLE reference. It was a shock to me because my last performance review was great and she also provided me with a wonderful letter of reference when I left. I do believe that some of the things that were said were not true, but I'm not sure how I far I should go with this. I know that I didn't get turned down for the job because of the reference (there was a more qualified candidate), but my husband works for this business (the one that received the information) and I have to interact with these people. I am embarrassed and don't know what to do.

I'm afraid now to put any information down about the job because I don't want anyone else calling her. What should I do?

What would I do? I'd ask for an appointment with the former employer and ask why the change of heart.

As far as this info now being at your husband's place of employment, while unfortunate I see nothing illegal here. You applied for a job, "bad" information was uncovered but I see no legal recourse (if that's the question). Now, if the former employer is making things up to harm you, that's a different story but you have already said so far you have no financial damages - and that's what you sue for.

I've hired people with unfavorable references from former employers because the potential employee has explained the problem right from the start.

All you have at this point is pretty much heresay. Apparently there is no transcript of what was said word for word. I was an HR director for several years and when I encountered a contradiction between the written reference and a verbal reference I discounted that person entirely. Two faced folks have an agenda and I don't what to talk with them. Following Judy's advice is well worth a try. It would give your old employeer something to think about if there are future reference checks. What were the circumstances around your departure?

We relocated and I even stayed a month longer (without my family, no less) to help train the new person. I had always been warned that this person would stab me in the back, but I had always been loyal to her. You could say she has a 'volitile' personality.

The board didn't renew her contract for next year and I think that she is out to make everyone's life a misery now. It just scares me because I feel like I can't put her as a former employer on my future applications.

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Originally Posted by ballengerb1

All you have at this point is pretty much heresay. Apparently there is no transcript of what was said word for word. I was an HR director for several years and when I encountered a contradiction between the written reference and a verbal reference I discounted that person entirely. Two faced folks have an agenda and I don't what to talk with them. Following Judy's advice is well worth a try. It would give your old employeer something to think about if there are future refernce checks. What were the circumstances around your departure?

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Hello c:

My guess, is the HR department didn't get the memo...

If they did, it would have said to mention the dates of service, and say NOTHING more...

That's what SMART companies are doing these days.

It's not to say that they should or shouldn't speak candidly about a previous employee.

It IS to say, that no matter what is said beyond that report, the previous company subjects itself to a lawsuit, that even if it wins, will be very costly...

So, since you're already dealing with an HR department who is waaaaay out of the corporate mainstream, it wouldn't surprise me that they lied too.

But, at this point, it's only hearsay. Ok, DO something about that. Have a friend call to ask about you and TAPE them.

Hopefully, you live in a state that allows ONE party recording.

If they're lying, take your tape to an attorney.

excon