References

[Aprilfoolish]

Hi all

NC as outing.

Am going through a toxic "divorce" from my employer. I have raised a grievance which has not been upheld (not surprised). I have found a new job.

I have no grievance raised against me. Could I receive a bad reference (I suspect in retaliation but not obviously so) or could they refuse to give me one at all and if so, how would this look to new employer?

Quick background (been there three and a half years), never had any issue raised against me before. Customer feedback etc all very strong.

Am also worried that a "reason" will be found to give a bad reference, after I've resigned. This would not be true but again am scared of retaliation.

Thanks for any thoughts!

Hopeful bump

Does your reference come from HR? It’s very likely that it’ll just confirm your name, job title and dates of employment.

They can refuse which does kind of send a message (I’ve done it)and they can also give you a “bad” one as long as it is factually correct. So things like failed probation, had 25 days off sick, was disciplined for being regularly late, failed to hit targets etc.
However, most references come from HR now and just say x worked here in Y position between these dates and resigned on z date