What can a previous employer tell a prospective employer?

Question

I live in Oklahoma. I need to know what a previous employer may LEGALLY tell a prospective employer who calls.

Answer 1

Legally? They may cite your start and end dates, job description and, I believe, ending salary.

Beware of the "good old boy" network, however. If you're leaving on bad terms, there's every possibility that your previous employer will add a "you didn't hear it from me."

Perhaps you should get a letter of reference from that employer, instead.

Answer 2

In addition to what others have said, most employers will be VERY careful what they say to a prospective employer, because it is so easy to get sued these days. If your previous employer is telling others you are a drug addict, you need to consult with an attorney to see if you can take action against them to 1) stop them from doing so and 2) sue for damages. I believe ( I could be wrong ) that you have a right to see what HR had you sign while in the hospital. Go get an attorney - tell them everything, don't lie the them, tell them everything. They are the best ones to advise you about your options. Do this before you loose another job opportunity. Tomorrow would be a real good day to talk to an attorney.

Answer 3

An employer can tell another employer anything that is true without fear of reprisals. The problem they may run into is the interpretation of what is said. For instance if the employer said you were "a good worker" and the potential employer did not hire you because he/she felt that "good" was not "good enough" even though the former employer may have meant you were the best worker ever you could have a case of defamation of character.

To make a long story short, they can say just about anything but most won't because of fear of litigation. Most employers just release information about employment start and term dates.

Answer 4

They can tell them anything. If you find out they gave inaccurate information, you have a legal issue on your hands. If you had a falling out with your last employer, and you sign a statement saying they can call your old boss and ask anything. If your old boss sees you signed it, legally the old boss can answer any question truthfully.

I would recommend that you sign an agreement with your potential employer that states they may call the above stated references to verify work history only.

And they can call the following character references to verify character and nature of your work.

Answer 5

Play your cards smartly and with caution

Answer 6

Starting and Ending dates
Scope of work
That is it!