I almost lost a $15,000 job because I didn't check a reference

I was in my shop in Boise, about to sign a contract to manage the fleet for a local delivery company. Their main guy, Mike, called my previous employer from three jobs back who said I was 'hard to work with.' I had to call Mike directly, explain the old conflict was about scheduling, not my work, and offer a 90-day trial period. He agreed, and we've been working together for two years now. How do you guys handle bad references from old bosses?

2 comments

2 Comments

johnfoster3d ago

Yeah, that's why I always call my own references now, BEFORE I give out their info. I just have a quick chat, say I'm applying for a new role, and make sure we're on the same page about what they'll say. It feels awkward but it saves this exact headache. Lets you fix any old problems before a potential boss hears about them.

rose_hart313d agoMost Upvoted

Honestly thought that was overkill but you're right, it's just smart damage control.