Advice needed please

cali_

When applying for another job, will the interviewer (potential new employer) contact the current employer before the interview?

Basically I don't want my current employer to know anything about it until I get the job. The application form does not allow me to opt out. What can I do?

Btw, it is a small community setting so they (current and potential employer) may have spoken to each other in passing.

BillyB

Do you mean as a reference? Some employers will and some wont, no one can really give you a definite answer. Some contact references before and some only check them once you've been offered the job.

cali_

Thanks for the reply BillyB. I thought that was the case.

Would it be strange to write on the letter or application to only contact current employer if I am successful at the interview stage? But then there is also a danger that they might ignore that and tip off my current employer.

Arrrgh not sure what to do. If I don't end up getting the job, I really don't want to rock the boat.

BillyB

Sorry if my reply is a bit late! You could write on the application asking them not to contact them unless your successful at interview stage, they may take not.. Depends on their policy, they may always contact references before. Good Luck!