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Reference Checking

Here are the questions filed under this category. To read Ken's advice on any item, click on the link "Read Ken's Answer."


We are running an ad, and my boss said I should eliminate all the resumes that do not include names of references. He said that leaving them off means that the person has something to hide. I've never heard of such a thing. Is it true?
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When providing a reference, my former employer makes it clear to prospective employers that he had a problem with me. It's not so much what he says, since the company has a policy of only verifying employment, but how he says it. I know this is true because one of the prospective employers told me so after calling him for a reference. What can be done about this?
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I responded to an ad by sending a cover letter and my resume. I received a letter back saying that in order to receive further consideration, I needed to provide letters from my previous employers verifying my experience, and proof of authorization to work in the United States. Is this as unusual as I think it is?
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I went to a job interview and gave the interviewer copies of some very positive letters written by some of my former employers. He tossed them aside and said letters aren't worth much because no one ever puts anything negative in writing. Are reference letters useless?
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My new supervisor is rude, abusive, and intimidated by my previous professional experience and technical knowledge. Although I previously received excellent yearly assessments, he has given me several verbal and written warnings within the first three weeks of reporting to him. I have begun searching for a new position, but I am concerned over what this supervisor will say about me in a reference check, and I fear a backlash from him if I do not obtain the new position. My previous management contacts have moved to other organizations. How do I approach this situation?
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We received a faxed resume from an applicant for an accounting position, and his resume included his picture. We did not ask for this. His work background looked good, so we invited him in for an interview. When he arrived, we were surprised to see that the photo on his resume is at least ten years old and hardly resembles him. We do not care about his age, but we are somewhat concerned that he would include something this misleading in his resume. What do you think?
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I was dismissed by the company owner during my ninety-day review meeting, without the supervisor present. The owner said good things about my attitude and work ethic, but the lack of accuracy in my work was given as the reason for the dismissal, although I thought I improved. I am seeking new employment and am concerned about what my former supervisor might say. He has been through several assistants and is unpleasant to work with. I would prefer to have prospective employers speak with the owner. Should I warn them about this supervisor?
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I am putting my resume together, and I have some impressive individuals who will provide excellent references for me. I have heard it is not a good idea to put references' names on a resume, but I'm wondering if I should do it because of who they are.
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One of our better sales reps suggested we interview an acquaintance of his for an important sales position. Several of us met with this applicant individually, and then we all went to dinner with him. In both meetings, I found him to be loud, opinionated, and hardly listening, but everyone else thought he was great. They all said this guy is a born salesman. I have real doubts. What can I do?
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I’m thinking of leaving my current job, and I’m wondering what I can do to assure the good work my boss has often praised is mentioned after I leave and a prospective employer calls for a reference. I have heard my boss rip into past employees. How can this be prevented, and how can I prepare my interviewer for this likelihood?
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We have an applicant whose resume looks good, and the manager who interviewed him said that he came across well. When I asked about the applicant’s references, the manager showed me three positive letters from his previous employers. In light of his resume, interview, and letters, the manager said there is no need for references. Do you agree?
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My manager and I just interviewed an applicant for a sales position, and the interview went extremely well. The applicant has a great background, and he had excellent answers to our questions. After the interview, my manager said that the candidate is so strong that we should forget about reference checks and just offer him the position. What do you think?
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A potential employer has a form that asks if they can contact a supervisor at a former company, and it allows you to check “yes” or “no.” In my last job, I had some difficulty regarding money owed to me, and I am not sure what impact it will have if I list this employer and then check the box indicating that my supervisor cannot be contacted. Will this be viewed adversely by this prospective employer?
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