How to Repond to Reference Check

[BlackjackAJ]

At my old job I managed someone somewhat annoying but who overall did an OK job. Since leaving that job I have heard from my old coworkers that this individual had since become really weird (distant, apathetic, possibly did hard drugs etc). I got a cheerful message the other day from this person saying that they had listed me as a reference on a job application. How "it would really help her out to receive a decent recommendation." Next, I got a call from an employer wanting to do some background checking. What do I do? It may seem simple, but I did technically leave on OK terms with the employee.

[asofel]

if they're reaching out for a "decent recommendation"...well damn...

just say what you knew of them, "overall did an OK job."

[mbillie1]

Just pull lines from "What's he building in there?" by Tom Waits.

[disjunction]

[ QUOTE ]
At my old job I managed someone somewhat annoying but who overall did an OK job. Since leaving that job I have heard from my old coworkers that this individual had since become really weird (distant, apathetic, possibly did hard drugs etc). I got a cheerful message the other day from this person saying that they had listed me as a reference on a job application. How "it would really help her out to receive a decent recommendation." Next, I got a call from an employer wanting to do some background checking. What do I do? It may seem simple, but I did technically leave on OK terms with the employee.

[/ QUOTE ]

Let us consider what's in it for you. The only way I can see you losing is if you say something bad and she sues you for slander.

[Los Feliz Slim]

Blackjack,

Stick to the facts, like employment dates, salary, etc. Don't give your personal opinion on anything. They ask "Was she a good employee?" you say "I never received any complaints" (if that's true). Keep it factual, true, and sterile.

[jedi]

Answer the questions truthfully. If they ask for your opinion, give it based on what you know. Don't go off of what your old coworkers said, cuz that's just hearsay.

[ybother]

Sorry I cant discuss this and then give them the number to HR

[Dudd]

[ QUOTE ]
Sorry I cant discuss this and then give them the number to HR

[/ QUOTE ]

Seriously, if the person can't man up and talk to you prior to giving your name out as a reference, I wouldn't go out of my way to help them.

[BlackjackAJ]

Does the fact that I really trust the opinion of the co-worker who informed me of the weird behavior traits change anything?

[silver book]

turn in your tps reports, then we'll talk