Q for HR people about references

[Youcallthatgreen]

Which is better from a HR point of view:

1. A reference which only confirms dates worked or
2. A reference which is just a copy of my job description but no comment on how well I did it or about me?

My employer and I have agreed to part company. They think I can't do my job, I think they haven't given me the required training. In reality we are both at fault.

I'm working as usual until we agree on the t&cs of me leaving. They have agreed to give me a reference but because they think I'm rubbish, it will be neutral at best.

I know references can say things that only HR people understand.

This is my only real work experience so I need to get it as right as I can.

most businesses i have worked in the references are neutral and fact based. worked from x til y. job title, parental leave taken to date, reason given for leaving.

parental leave taken to date

Erm, why?

Because
www.gov.uk/parental-leave/entitlement
Parental leave is the unpaid leave we are all entitled to specifically to spend extra time with children (see link) It is an overall entitlement that carries over from one employment to the next.

Yes, but it’s weird to include that info on a reference. Generally speaking, offers are subject to references. If you start outing people as parents in references you may find yourself on sticky ground!

Majority of them now are just yes X worked here from X date to X date as a insert job title.

Hardly anyone responds to proforma requests these days for the fear of getting sued. (Sad but true) it doesn't look bad, it's just a given that you get back just a standard one & if they complete the proforma it's a bonus.

So no real difference then?

Yes, parental leave is an odd one to put on a reference because it can lead to claims of discrimination.