Job Advice

[Volz]

Ok, I'm really, REALLY wanting to find another job. Mostly the problem is that I can't tell my boss and I wouldn't want prospective employers to call her for fear of backlash from her and others in my department. And to add to it, the last 2 jobs that I've held have gone out of business (not while I was working for them, but years later).


So what do I do for references? I basically have none. I've tried contacting my bosses and my previous 2 jobs, but are no where to be found. :|



Advice?

 

[fille]

Do you still have contact with any former co-workers? If the companies are out of business and you can't contact the bosses, a co-worker reference might be helpful. As for your current job, I think prospective employers will understand that you don't want them contacted.

You can also try other sources for references, such as civic groups you're involved in, or business people who, though you don't work for them, have known you for a long time.

 

[SlvrTongueDevil]

It's not uncommon to ask someone you're interviewing with to not use your current job as a reference if you haven't quit it. That shouldn't be a factor. Great idea to find anyone from previous 2 employers who might be able to give an initial reference.

Another possibility is to tell the "new" (soon to be) employer that they can check your references for your current job only after you've had an offer. Many will do that, understanding that they can't contact your current until you give notice.

Good Luck.

 

[EJFan]

i don't have any advice that would be better than what's already here (and these guys made some great suggestions) but i have a general comment...

why do some employers become so possessive of their employees? i've been very lucky to have worked in environments where managers didn't presume that their office was the be-all, end-all of employment opportunities. i wish managers would act more rationally and encourage people to better themselves... it's not personal (mostly) to want to move up in one's career. it's part and parcel of a good working relationship... and it actually makes a more comfortable and productive environment.

 

[Volz]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll have to see who I can track down.

i don't have any advice that would be better than what's already here (and these guys made some great suggestions) but i have a general comment...

why do some employers become so possessive of their employees? i've been very lucky to have worked in environments where managers didn't presume that their office was the be-all, end-all of employment opportunities. i wish managers would act more rationally and encourage people to better themselves... it's not personal (mostly) to want to move up in one's career. it's part and parcel of a good working relationship... and it actually makes a more comfortable and productive environment.

A lot of the problem in our department is that it isn't a fairly skilled position and we get a lot of 'bad apples' that come through here. I've been here for 4 years and never had one problem. In fact, if I'm allowed to brag, I think I do an excellent job.

And the reasons for my departure are mostly personal. But, I don't want to let on to that.

 

[fionafans]

Most companies do not utilize references anymore. Mostly for the fact of legal issues. Due to Title VII companies are concerned to learn of information that could implicate them for discremination.

If you have close co-workers at your previous jobs, ask them if you could use them.