Getting a job without reference from last employer.

[MAURICE202]

After an incident at my previous job, I had to resign (it was that or be fired). I am now looking for work in a totally different sector but am unable to give a reference from my last employer (they have already declined to write me one). I have already lost out on one job opportunity because of this and am concerned as to how I can go about securing new employment without being able to give a reference from my last employer. Does anyone have any advice or experience regarding this kind of situation? Any help would be gratefully received.

[radiogaga]

It depends upon the incident, the employer and the type of contract that you had. If you left due to feeling that you were about to be fired, it may be the case that your previous employer was trying to force you out via some kind of constructive dismissal. Unless it is a serious incident, employers have to follow a set process of discussing options with you regarding your ability to continue working. Disciplinary procedures also have to be followed before an employee is ever fired. Most above board companies have HR policies which they have to follow for fear of being sued! Why not ask an employment lawyer about your rights ? Alternatively, get a mate with a business to write you a reference as future employers rarely do that many checks. However, this will depend upon the type of industry you are involved in.

Best of luck.

[EverClean]

If you are up-front with a prospective employer and state that although you were not fired there is smoe bad feeling toward you from your last employer and they have already refused to give a reference once they will take a better view of you. If you can provide other employment or character references to back up your good name then a petty ex-employer won't seem as bad. I know of many employers that I have worked for will write for a reference a couple of times and if they get no response then they'll just forget about it. I also know of a couple of employer who won't take you on until they have a complete 5 years worth of references.

As already stated it can depend entirely on the industry you are in.