Jan

29

How to Address a Bad Recommendation

Posted by Dan

January 29, 2008 |

It happens to the best of job seekers- that one past supervisor with nothing good to say about you. Whether you were having personal problems that made doing your best possible, the personalities just weren’t a match, or you hadn’t found your fit field-wise, inevitably your job search will bring you around to that perpetual question- “Can we call your last supervisor?” How do you field that question with delicacy without giving up on the new job?

Consider the worst case scenario. What is the worst thing your supervisor would have to say about you? Do you have a difficult time getting to work on time? Why not use the interview as a chance to rave about how much more convenient your new workplace would be for you? Did you find yourself in over your head? “This job would be a great chance for me to learn new skills.” Personal or health-related issues? Emphasize that you have been through some tough times now and your new lease on life has given you the inspiration to seek out a better fit for your strengths where you can really shine.

If all fails, find reassurance. In the modern lawsuit climate, most employers will do little more than confirm dates of employment (and occasionally salary). Be sure to include other references who will be willing to rave about you and you can dodge that bad reference to win the job.


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