Kirstie
Über Member
Has anyone done this? If so what were the ramifications? Did it come back on you in any way? I am about to be put in a position where I give a reference for someone I would not wish on others in that particular role!
My understanding is that you can give a bad reference but you must be willing to support anything you write in court. That means that, for bad employees, most refuse to give a reference or just give the basic minimum information.ttcycle said:By law Kirstie, you're not allowed to give a bad reference - as people can sue for defamation of character though it rarely happens.
Kirstie said:Ah ok ttcycle this is why the reference system is really bad at predicting the quality of job performances. So would something like 'I'm would prefer not to express an opinion' be appropriate in these circs?
Greedo said:Worked in recruitment for years and you have a few options Kirstie.
1. You can refuse to give a reference
2. You can give the most blatant and blunt responses in your answers and someone with half a brain will get what you're talking about.
3. You can give a "bad" reference as such if you have evidence to support it. I.E poor performance plans they were on, documented meetings which you had and were signed by both parties about anything specific they were disciplined for.
4. Give the ref and your phone number if they wish to discuss further and tell them the truth on the phone.
The thing I would ask though is you always come across as a decent sort. Would it not be easier to just give a basic ref, forget about it and let the new employers deal with them. Live and let live and all that.....
Unless they really done something bad that is