Asked for Reference and Got More than Bargined for?

Question

I was laid off from my job & asked my last supervisor for a reference, who I felt would give me a decent review to my future employer. I stressed the importance of needing a good reference since the new place made it clear they needed reputable clearance from my last suprvsor before they could take me on. So I asked my last suprvsor if he'd give me a good reference. He responded that it wouldn't be a problem to serve as a reference for me.

The new place really needs someone, but they contacted me about speaking w/another supervsr from a previous job I held awhile ago. The new place seemed like they were lying when I asked about what my first reference said (they were very evasive)

I needed to give the new place my last supervisor's contact info, but feel he gave me a negative, very flat, or empty review. He didn't even follow up w/me to say that someone called (& I asked him to). I feel like I can't trust anyone. I feel strange abt talking to my 1st reference now. I feel duped.

Answer 1

So - ask your first reference if he even got a call. They may be leading you on.

I hate to say this, sometimes these companies are looking for someone higher up and will use you as a "source" of names & numbers. It isn't nice, but it is done sometimes. Or, he could be at a company that doesn't allow people to give references - it happens.

Sorry.

Answer 2

Anything could have happened, but if you really want to know what your old boss would say have a friend call and say that you have applied for a job. It's possible something happened at the new place and they didn't know how to tell you and your old boss may have give a great reference.

Answer 3

Dont worry about it if you have nothing to worry about. You are who you are and if you dont get hired, ask the new employer why not. Come up with some good solid references from somewhere.