A longtime boss at a college at used to work at, is giving me a bad reference at positions I am applying for. Currently, work at a education sales job, trying to get back into a true college position. Boss I had for 14 yrs is giving me a bad ref. We had a rough last couple of yrs together-money-and other issues.
2007-10-20 15:06:10 · 6 answers · asked by friday12t 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Small Business
You should seek legal assistance. I believe you have a case against him for what he is doing. At my firm, we never give negative references for that reason. Even if they were a terrible employee, we still won't talk negatively about them as they would be able to sue us. Do not contact this guy yourself. Contact an attorney and let the attorney contact him.
2007-10-20 15:11:09 · answer #1 · answered by Homeslice 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
1, if you are in the USA then this applies, if not, no clue.
2. unless this ex boss is giving such bad references by written form in letter or email, you have grounds to sue him for slander of character among other items.
3. by law, the only reference a past employer can give over a phone is, " will you hire this person again? yes or no". Anything more than this must be put in writing.
4. either confront the ex boss nicely and show them the law and ask them not to force your hand w/ the law.
5. contact attorney and have them send a warning letter of cease action.
6. find another person from that job you can use as a reference and remove the problem from the solution.
2007-10-20 17:14:18 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with the above post about seeking legal advice. If you live in the US there are laws that protect as a former employee. I recommend that you find your local employee rights advocate group and tell them your situation.
My question to you would be...How do you know that your old boss is giving you a bad rep? Play along a little, I suggest you have a female call his office and pretend to be a recruiter and see what the old boss says. Do not escalate the situation by confronting your old boss, seek legal advice first.
Most reference questions consist of how long, previous positions held, duties and nothing more. Former employees should never give out reasons for firing such as medical reasons, family situations, etc because it may violate employee privacy rights.
Good Luck!
2007-10-20 15:22:47 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The employer is not supposed to give information like that to anyone. Call a couple of lawyers to find out for sure. Remember, lawyers will give free, first time advice . Most lawyers will refer you to one who can help if they cannot. The Bar Association may help also. Your boss is in the wrong. This is assuming that you live in the States. Do not let him get away with ruining your reputation.
2007-10-20 15:13:22 · answer #4 · answered by grannywinkie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Legally, the only information a future employer is supposed to get from a past employer is confirming the dates of your employment, your title and your duties. Anything else could open up the previous employer up for a lawsuit for libel. If this continues and you choose not to pursuit a legal course of action, my only reccomendation is to not list this boss as a point of reference.
2007-10-20 15:16:22 · answer #5 · answered by di12381 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
how do you KNOW for sure this person is giving you a bad reference ? Did potential employers TELL YOU or SHOW YOU a letter from that person ? If so, get a good labor lawyer and SUE HIS BUTT OFF.
2007-10-20 15:29:33 · answer #6 · answered by Mike 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋