bitten twice by Nuisance permie reference...advice please

[conned tractor]

nitromors on his motor works nicely - seen it done over a work dispute - shop floor worker on a managers car, allegedly. Didn't ever find out the outcome though. Just don't leave any prints.

[GardenGirl]

When I'm hiring and I have other people from a candidates ex company available I'm likely to canvas some opinion on an informal basis. From the sounds of this it's that sort on opinion that's tripping the OP up.

I think this is common in large companies, i've done it myself and I've been asked by others. This is why remind myself everytime some of the Numpty contractors\permies out there p me off that I can't lose it because it could affect me later on. Its hard but I gave up caring about people like this when I left Permiedom some years back

[Darren_Test]

Are you really, really sure it is not your interview technique?

Just a thought.

2 cases I mentioned here..first case I got offer on the spot during the interview & I believe after nuisance's interaction with one of my interviewer created trouble for me. Second case there was no interview, they were ready to take me just based on the reference from the client as I worked for them twice in the past.

[Darren_Test]

This happened to me once. I was just winding up one contract, and when I went for another, the prospective new PM contacted a friend of his in my old place, and got a bad report of me: all non-specific stuff like "bad work attitude".

I asked my PM on the old project if he would feel unable to give me a good reference if asked. No, he said, I'd give you a very good reference because I'm very happy with your work. That's why I've kept you on until there is absolutely no more work for you. Why?

I explained, and he asked me to put the agency in touch with him directly. Later the agency told me that he had given me a glowing reference, as had the team leader whom he had also asked to do so; and the PM had added angrily that if anyone wanted to know about my work they should ask him, since he was the one who was in a position to know.

I was pleased to know that I had at least made a good impression on those who worked with me, but I still didn't get the contract, so I did the only reasonable thing: moved on.

This is exactly what happened in my case as well. Not once but twice. There is only first tier 5-6 clients like the one I mentioned above in my industry. 3 of them close to my home & I lost chances in 2 of them now due to this nuisance permie...! Thats the reason why I am getting worried.

BTW after bit of pressure finally I got response from the agency that the reason is "role filled internally". I am not convinced though..

[MPwannadecentincome]

I didn`t think it was acceptable to give bad references these days? HR at the company probably would abide by that rule. If the managers gave bad references without consulting HR they could be in the sh** themselves. Good references fine, but I think bad references should be done by HR or by consultation with them.

A reference is only bad if it can be proven so - therefore bad references are rarely given in writing.

[scooterscot]

A while ago I once heard my manager give a mouth-full over the phone, to an agent presumably, regarding an x-contractor who did a great job imo.

Manager was stressed I reckon high blood pressure I'm sure, anyone could be a target.

I just wiped the role from my CV, does not even get a mention - seriously.

[expat]

I think this is common in large companies, i've done it myself and I've been asked by others. This is why remind myself everytime some of the Numpty contractors\permies out there p me off that I can't lose it because it could affect me later on. Its hard but I gave up caring about people like this when I left Permiedom some years back

Spot-on. I didn't get where I am today, I mean I didn't go into contracting, just to get nervous about every comment that people might make, it'd be just like permie revews.

[tino]

A while ago I once heard my manager give a mouth-full over the phone, to an agent presumably, regarding an x-contractor who did a great job imo.

Manager was stressed I reckon high blood pressure I'm sure, anyone could be a target.

I just wiped the role from my CV, does not even get a mention - seriously.

yup, been there and done that one

[Ivor Bigun]

A while ago I once heard my manager give a mouth-full over the phone, to an agent presumably, regarding an x-contractor who did a great job imo.

"Depersonalisation" meets "Jealousy" meets "Tall Poppy Syndrome".

How to stop being a victim?
- Always look busy
- Don't associate with stressed tw*ts - avoid them, no matter how much they want to be your friend - politely be quiet, ignore and "Sorry xxx, I'm a bit busy" - they can only do you harm.
- Never talk about yourself
- Never outshine your boss and only do what you're asked to do
- Never "crow" or compare yourself to other team members

If you don't do the above, you'll always be in danger of being the "weakest link" when the agent calls for a verbal reference.......

[SBK1972]

Been contracting for 14 years and have learnt to play the game. Contracting is about how you interact with the team, as mcuh as if you can do the job.

Headoftesting was spot on with his reply, and as much as it hurts to read it, a `still tongue keeps a wise head`. I wouldnt say a thing, I wouldnt ring up ex managers, as the last memory will now be of a bleating guy complaining about his reference.

I dont for one minute think your a bad guy, quite the oppisitte, infact its the other person who keeps putting the knife in which is causing you issue, which is a tough break. Did you take up the guys suggestion of ringing up, pretending to be a agency and ask for a reference ?

I found working in the city very much like the above. You cant get on with everyone in life, or you would never be yourself. As much as ex managers tell you that they will give you a good reference, people say and do differently.

Perhaps its time to look at other clients, give this one a break, let the dust settle so to speak.

I do feel sorry for you. Reference are easy, if truthful. Surely you must have friends that are high up in companies, that can give you references ?? This is what I do now if I need additional help.

I hope it all works out for you.

SBK