References help

[redeye9]

I want to apply for a job, but they want two references up front - present and past employer. The application form says a job offer would be subject to references.

My current employer's policy says all rferences must go to HR, and I have her name so that's easy enough. However, what do I do if (hypothetically speaking), they go to her to a reference before I have handed in my notice?

The second problem is previous employer. My last boss was an awful man and I don't want to ask him for anything. The HR department is a generic email, and they only disclose job title and dates of working. However, the application form wants a name and job title - would a generic HR email address be enough?

HR will do the reference. Loads of jobs are subject to satisfactory reference before an offer is made. Tell HR you have applied for another job and they might be in touch for a reference. As HR don’t know your day to day competencies I assume they will give basic info and confirm you are breathing!

Regarding second firm: contact HR. Say what the problem is. You don’t work there any more. Ask if HR or another manager can provide the details. Many references are now not subjective anyway. So bypass the old boss.

For the first problem, I would either make it very clear in bold that references are NOT to be contacted before mutual agreement.

Or simply in the space for references say these will be provided when required.

The subject to references means they will offer you the job, but if references then come back poor they can legally pull it. They are very unlikely to contact them before the offer stage.