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

toastyboats

We have a scheme in our office where employees can recommend talent for roles and get what is essentially a finders fee.

After a glowing reference from a trusted employee, we called a gentleman in for an interview. He was unprofessional, inappropriate and so clearly not right for the role, or for our company in general that it left us questioning not just why he had applied but why the employee had recommended him. I have honestly lost trust in the opinion and judgement of said employee ever since and question just what he was thinking doing his mate "a favour" when it so clearly reflected badly on him.

Not an identical situation but you can see the impression it gives. Don't do it!

SilverDiana

In a perfect world we would always show someone the refeence we were giving, before we sent it. In a less perfect world we show it after we've sent it. In a very imperfect world we never show them.
I think you should show your friend the reference before you send it, and give them 24 hours to agree or object.
That way you show willingness to your friend, but give them an opportunity to address the issues.

Maurice_Ellis

You could try include the following;

"She had modest aspirations and achieved them effortlessly"

I've used it many times in references, it sounds good and tells no lies!

nczm

Could you not ask her to write her own reference and get her to give you examples of where she achieved it when working at your company, if you then agree to write your own you can leave in the truths and take out anything which can't be substantiated, I'd guess that they'll give up pretty sharpish. Otherwise I'd just say that you are not permitted by the firm and it has to go through your boss

Androcles

Jo09 wrote: »

Some references won't allow just the basic HR type reference, theyll ask specific questions which will need to be answered. Why not suggest that someone else may be able to provide a more glowing reference than the honest one you can provide? If they insist / beg you've already warned them you'll be truthful.

If you just supply the answers to the factual HR questions and ignore the others, the recipient will get the message!

bmcws

Tailor the reference to the new job.

Are the skills required for her new job the same skills as her old job? If not, it is irrelevant that she didn't do so well in the previous job.

Even if she lacks some particular skills, you could say that she could develop x,y,z skill and would benefit from suitable training: Many companies have CPD training courses and her prospective employer may have no qualms with putting her on one.

Of course, if you think that she's not going to be able to hack the new job (even with suitable training), then suggest that she might find someone more appropriate to give a reference.

pippinpuss

Refs can come back & bite you on the bum. I worked for a large council & one of our social workers wanted to go on a 2 year course. No-one liked her as she was brusque & mean spirited. She was given a good ref to go on the course so she could be got rid of. But at the end of 2 years wanted to come back. NO she was told, BUT you gave her a good ref said the head honcho's, she can't be that bad. So she had to come back & was as bad as before.

So be careful what you write. Just give the bare facts.

portlandboy

Owain_Moneysaver wrote: »

On the contrary, it will be accessible under the subject access provisions of the Data Protection Act.

Does that cover letters? I thought it was for computer info only

happyinflorida

Why are you even asking this? A reference is meant to be honest so are you a dishonest person?

Of course you say no, never mind her personal circumstances and if she asks, you explain politely and honestly why you're refusing.

reluctantworkingmum

Sorry but it seems I disagree with everyone on this. She is struggling - so help her! She messed up some part time work - but you did say it was a few years ago - she may have improved or this may be a more suitable job.
It is quite possible to give a basic character reference - ie say the things that are true - she was honest/ punctual/ reliable etc and leave blank anything that would in your opinion be a downright lie, them quantify it by saying how long ago it was.
Remember the saying - what goes round comes round! - you may need help from someone else one day