'Reason for leaving'

[ElektraLOL]

What do you say is your reason for leaving when your employer has made your working conditions intolerable?

I have an interview this week for a new job. My boss is going to be mad if I leave now because they are very busy around Christmas. But I've done a 3 month probation period and she's not willing to renew contract despite glowing reports about my work.

Original contract says I have to give one weeks notice if I'm on probation.

My friend told me they ask you which references they are to contact first? My precious boss told me to give her name instead. I worked there longer.

Yes the new company was very complimentary about my performance on the phone. They said I performed the trade test to a very high standard.

Isn't it illegal to give a bad reference anyway?

I know I do just have to go. Yesterday I got home and cried. It’s really upsetting for me to get to a point with a job where I feel it’s broken me as I’m such a conscientious person. I’ve realised the environment is obviously hugely important for me (perhaps because I’m autistic)

Isn't it illegal to give a bad reference anyway

That is a myth. It is completely legal to give a bad reference as long as it is accurate and truthful.

Yes but you'd have to prove it was accurate and truthful. Eg, someone got sacked for a specific reason. You can't just bitch about someone because they didn't behave how you wanted.

Congratulations. Working christmas is probably a slightly easier road in one way - makes you magnanimous and above reproach and new employer is fine with it. You can mentally detatch and just be super professional.

But it sounds like you would be within your rights to leave sooner and might prefer this option. Just keep a fixed smile on your face and ride out the storm of any bad behaviour from employer.

Thanks Eva

It all seems to have gone fine. I gave contractual notice. When asked for references I chose people from other jobs and the lecturer who trained me who is now a head of department.

So I start new job next week.

Oh that’s great, I’m so pleased for you!

Thank you. I'm so bloody relieved.