Reference from your current boss?!

Anonymous

August 24,2023 at 7:45PM UTC

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Reference from your current boss?! I have an interview tomorrow, possibly a final interview, and I am trying to decide if I want to ask my current boss to be a reference. He knows I'm being underutilized and he is too. I have forwarded jobs to him that I thought were interesting. But, is formally asking for a reference something I could come back from? And I really don't want to leave my good benefits and my private restroom. Seriously what is 30 minutes in commute and a private restroom with? 70k? 100k? Silly people problems!!!

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Debra SesholtzAugust 24,2023 at 10:23PM UTC
I suppose it really depends on your relationship with your current boss, but I wouldn’t suggest using him as a reference. He may know your looking for a new role, but it could make things awkward going forward whether you stay or leave.
AnonymousAugust 25,2023 at 12:11AM UTC
Until you have an offer in hand don't use references from your current employer or you may find yourself out of work before you are ready. Especially based upon what you said because clearly he and you know that you are not being used so they may just choose to save money by letting you go early.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 25,2023 at 6:06AM UTC
Personally, the first time anyone I work with knows I'm looking for a new job is when I turn in my resignation.
A job search can take a long time these days. Months, even a year. In many companies, once it's known you have one foot out the door, that's the end of the interesting projects or in some cases people have been fired when it's been discovered they're looking.
Many companies aren't even checking references these days. The last three companies I've worked for have done employment verification - all done electronically.
Katheryn MAugust 25,2023 at 1:02PM UTC
It defintely depends on your relationship with your boss, but it sounds like you have both commiserated over the lack of love you have for your jobs. I like to float it out there before I'm even interviewing. "Hey, if I happened to be in need of a reference down the line, would you give me one?" And then once the interview is done and I feel good about it, I'd confirm. "Remember when you said you'd give me a reference? Well, I'm not sure how this will all pan out, but I'm going to list you for a job."
However, you're on a tighter schedule. I'd just be open and honest- focus the conversation on how you have had some frustrations and putting feelers out there to see if anything bites. Let them know you are still fully dedicated to you job and ask for the reference. If you really are excited about the job, it can't hurt to ask.
AnonymousAugust 27,2023 at 5:12PM UTC
I agree with Joan. Not a good idea and the company you are applying to is not expecting it. If you give it, they will wonder why (for example, are you in some relationship causing a conflict of interest that reflects your ethics?). This is, of course, unless this is a company that is publically downsizing and you are trying to get out ahead of a layoff. Hopefully, you have another supervisor from a previous company that you could give instead. If not, perhaps someone from someplace you volunteered. Some people don't realize that this can be a valuable experience, and your performance in a "job" where you were not paid can tell a lot, especially in areas of dedication, performance, timeliness, etc..