Is It Bad to Deny Contacting a Previous Employer?

Many job seekers find themselves in a situation where they need to deny having their previous employer contacted as part of the hiring process. While it might seem like a no-no to outright refuse, understanding the reasons why and how to explain them can make the difference between landing a job or being left behind.

Why Refusing Contact Might Not Be Bad

No, it is not inherently bad to deny having your previous employer contacted. However, it is crucial to provide a reasonable explanation. The truth is, many people have reasons for not wanting their previous employer to be contacted, such as unresolved issues or concerns about privacy.

Recruiters and hiring managers understand that individuals might have legitimate reasons for denying contact. For instance, if you are currently working at a company and your job search is on hold, your employer might not appreciate another unsolicited inquiry. Such reasons can easily be misunderstood as a red flag, so it's important to clarify them.

Contextualizing the Decision

When faced with the decision to deny contact, it's essential to consider the circumstances surrounding your departure from the previous employer. Was the situation filled with adversity, such as being fired or laid off under difficult circumstances?

One of the best approaches is to explain the circumstances in a positive light. If you left due to adverse conditions, try to frame it as a positive step towards your career growth. For example, if your previous employer became too demanding, you might frame it as a decision to pursue more fulfilling and supportive work environments.

Understanding the Legalities

By law, previous employers are typically only allowed to verify dates of employment. They cannot provide detailed information without your explicit authorization. This means that even if you deny contact, it is unlikely that your previous employer will have detailed information to share, unless you gave them permission.

In the UK, the process of providing references usually only includes dates of employment and, in rare cases, job titles. Organizations rarely contact current employers for verification, especially if you have been with the company for a longer period.

Reasons and Exceptions

Some job applicants might face specific circumstances where denying contact is reasonable. For example, you might be fearful of being fired if your employer discovers you are looking for a new job. In such cases, it is a reasonable request, and the hiring manager or recruiter is likely to respect your decision, albeit with the caveat that if you are offered a job, references will be required.

When to Expect a Background Check

Depending on the timing and context, a background check might or might not be conducted. If the gap between leaving your previous job and starting a new one is significant—say, over 10 years—there is a higher chance that your previous employer will not be contacted.

However, if you are desperate to find a new job, some organizations might bypass the typical reference checks and contact your previous employer anyway. It is advisable to be prepared for this possibility.

The Role of Recruiters and Hiring Managers

Recruiters and hiring managers are aware that background checks can be problematic. They often rely on thorough research, checks, and interviews to ensure the best fit for the role. In most cases, they are willing to respect your decision while still keeping the option open for verification if necessary.

In summary, while it's crucial to be transparent with your reasons for denying contact with a previous employer, the key is to provide a logical and reasonable explanation. This can help build trust with potential employers and ensure that your application is not unfairly dismissed based on a simple refusal.