Real-life MMD: Should I give former colleague an undeserved reference?

ronangel

This reminds me, many years ago (70’s) I was asked to give a reference to a government department for somebody ( a foreign gentleman) I saw every day but although honest a bit “dodgy”. I cant remember exactly what I wrote but I think one line was “This man has never been convicted of any criminal offence” or words to that effect which was perfectly true!
He seemed happy so the outcome was ok….. Probably works high up in the government now which could explain a lot of things!:cool:

mr-tom_2

If you lie in order to assist her getting work that she seems unsuitable for, you are basically stealing from her new employer.

If you want to do something for her, address the reasons for her previous failure with her. It'll be a far more valuable gift in the long run if it works out, but it won't be comfortable.

VfM4meplse

I don't see any dilemma here! The answer should be no.

missrlr

Factually accurate confirmation of dates and responsibilities stating this is policy. Don't risk your professional reputation

Ebenezer_Screwj

This woman is obviously not good employment material and she has put you in a difficult position. I would tell her that in view of your association you are unwilling to give her a reference based on the truth nor will you give her a false reference.

bouncydog1

As already mentioned, any new employer is entitled to rely on a reference provided which is why many firms will now only provide basic references to avoid any chances of future litigation.

Say sorry - no.

jockosjungle

I'd suggest the odds of the company actually asking you for a reference are about 1 in 50. My mate was a personal reference for me for about 4 years and every job I have ever had. I think ASDA were the only ones who ever asked.

Most companies give a very factual reference, just dates usually and others don't give one out at all. So their use is pretty limited.

Anyway I imagine you would be a personal reference, they shouldn't be asking about work related stuff.

ValleysGirl

I agree with the others that you shouldn't give an inaccurate reference, but aren't there other issues to deal with here as well? I assume that when you first suggested to your boss that this former colleague could do some part-time work, you'd had no problem with her work in the past. If that's the case, was there some other underlying reason for her then not delivering 'as expected'? Perhaps this needs to be addressed first - by the sound of it, she's no longer working with you, so you don't really know whether or not she'd be able to 'deliver' this time (and you could use this as a reason for not giving a reference).

brewerdave

More than 15 years ago, when I was a fairly senior manager in a large UK plc, we were instructed NOT to give personal references any more - all references were provided by the HR department along the lines previously suggested in post #7. No comments were allowed on actual performance in the post or attendance issues in case of legal proceedings being brought by an unsuccessful job applicant!

cazpost

Are they asking for a work related reference,or a personal character reference ? Either way,tell the truth,don't go into massive amounts of detail,but equally don't lie. If she is an honest ,hard working woman,but incompetent at x,y,z then say so.If she is competent but lazy,then that is what you need to say.

Alternatively,suggest some other people to her who would be more appropriate to provide references.