References prior to interview?

[over2021]

I work in an education related field so am aware of KCSIE but...

I am a senior manager. I have applied for a sideways move at a different organisation - same job title just different place. I have an interview on Friday- the times won't interfere with my current job so don't need to ask for time off.

The sting in the tail is that they have insisted on asking for references before the interview. This means I have to tell my boss I've applied for another job. I'm in month 11 of a 12 month probationary period. I think this leaves me in a really shitty position if I don't get the other job.

I'm not sure if it's an AIBU because I have given the details and will need to speak to my boss in the morning but it's added a whole extra layer of anxiety to getting the job!

Sounds like Safer Recruitment.

It is but my company will only confirm dates of employment anyway so it feels like I have to confess to my boss that I hate my job (that I can't afford to lose!) for them to literally confirm that I work there and no more. Where I work we also comply with safer recruitment but only take references after interview (our offers are conditional)

Is the recruiting organisation closer to home, or more convenient for your commute? You don't need to say you hate your job - just some practical reason that it's a better fit.

Neither- it's our direct competitor

Have they asked for referees or for actual references? It is quite normal to ask for referees ahead of interview, but not to approach them for a reference until the offer phase

Specifically said they want to take up reference prior to interview

As expected, I've had a conversation with my line manager this morning to let them know I have an interview and they may be approached for a reference.

20 minutes later I've just received an invitation to meet with my line manager and HR at 1pm. Guess I really need this job on Friday but I stand by it being shitty practice to put applicants in that position.

@over2021 How did that meeting go?

Oh that is shitty. Hope you get the job

I'd just say you hadn't heard anything about your probation and needed to keep your options open so you weren't without a job?

It is awful of them to do this though. References are pointless anymore anyway.

Does it state those references need to include your current employer? Especially as you have only been there a short time it would seem like a good idea to reference you up until your current employer then reference them once you have handed in your notice.

I see from your updates you've already had to let your current employer know - how awkward for you and not actually necessary.

Yanbu this is a very awkward situation. I can see why they do it vis a vis safer recruitment but really it's just a lot of undue stress for candidates who may not really be willing to lay out their cards on the table.