Referees - Current Job / Team Member on the same level

[federboa]

Hi,

I would like know the following.

As you all can imagine it is often hard to give the current supervisor as referee as you do not want to let them know that you are looking for a new job or you have personal problems with this individual. Is it acceptable to nominate another team member who works on a similar level but does have an overview how I do perform at work or is that a total 'NO go'? I am often wondering how jobseeker handle this as I think that must apply to so many people.

Is there any common rule how current referees should be or is it reasonable to nominate someone who worked with me two years ago?

What are the most common questions when checking references via phone?

Thanks for your expertise!!! I am excited to hear your answers...

[Moz]

Is it acceptable to nominate other team member who works on a similar level but does have an overview how I do perform at work or is that a total 'NO go'?

If you are still in a job, no reasonable employer would expect you to give your current supervisor/manager as an referee, or indeed anyone from your current workplace, because it may compromise your current position (in the event that you did not leave).

However if you are not currently working you can nominate a co worker as a referee, but don't be surprised if the company you are interviewing with asks for someone more senior, usually the person you reported to.

If you had issues with this individual it's probably best to say that and explain why.

This is just my opinion, other HR Buzz members may have a different view.

[Tasman McManis]

Hi Federboa

I agree with Moz although this could be different if you were facing a redundancy. In terms of referrees, I think it is ok to use someone who you worked for some time ago. It will often depend on the experience received in a role and its relevance to the new role. Employers are usually keen to see how you handled similar situtations in a previous life. One of the questions people like to use is "would you rehire this person?" Regards Tas