How to give a bad reference and get away with it

**threaded** · 8 June 2006, 12:36

I am pleased to say that this candidate is a former colleague of mine.

**The Lone Gunman** · 8 June 2006, 12:44

Originally posted by threaded

I am pleased to say that this candidate is a former colleague of mine.

Go on Threaded, just scan the last ref you were given, that should about cover it

**threaded** · 8 June 2006, 12:50

Originally posted by The Lone Gunman

Go on Threaded, just scan the last ref you were given, that should about cover it

Since I stopped using agents have not had a client ask for reference...

**ladymuck** · 8 June 2006, 12:58

So what do they call the chaps down the jobcentre these days?

**Mailman** · 8 June 2006, 13:26

Contractors between contracts I believe

Mailman

**DodgyAgent** · 8 June 2006, 13:45

Originally posted by Swamp Thing

Thinking back over some of the permies I have previously worked with, I would have loved to have tried one of these double-meaning sentences in their references:

“If you can get this person to work for you, you will indeed be fortunate”.

“In the workplace he is capable of anything”.

“He was fired with enthusiasm”.

The last one is my fave. Has anyone got any others?

I like that one too, but you missed a bit of it:

He left as he arrived, Fired with enthusiasm.

**wc2** · 8 June 2006, 18:13

The easy way is agree with person x to give them a reference.

When you get the call or letter you decline giving the reference.

This used to be standard for "DO NOT EMPLOY"

**thunderlizard** · 8 June 2006, 23:10

All his work is outstanding.

**AtW** · 8 June 2006, 23:19

You can be sued for that - there were successful precedents in UK courts.

How to give a bad reference and get away with it