How to Deal With a Bad Resume Reference

A proven track record of accomplishments says more than one bad reference.

Getting the job offer you want can be a challenge, especially when a former boss does not give you a good reference. Even when your interviews go well, a less-than-favorable opinion from a former employer can sabotage you. A reference is one person's opinion, however, and does not necessarily tell the whole story about your track record on the job. If you have a good performance history on the job, your proven accomplishments can give you the foundation you need to move to the next level in your career.

Instructions

1. Ask someone else who knows your work well to give you a reference instead of your former boss. Look over your track record and think about projects that you completed with good results. Contact project supervisors or managers or other executives that you reported to on your best projects. Tell them about your job search and career goals, and ask them if they're willing to give you a good reference. Send them a copy of your latest resume so they can refer to specifics about your performance when a prospective employer contacts them about you.

2. List the human resources manager, or another HR representative, as the contact person at your former job. Some employers require you to fill out an application form during the employment process. Job application forms require you to list all employment so be accurate when you fill out this form. Even if you didn't get along with your former boss, human resources records may show that you were an employee in good standing.

3. Answer questions about the reasons you left your job honestly. Tell your side of the story truthfully, without badmouthing your former boss if asked. Prospective employers may not like your answers, but if you lie you risk having job offers revoked or being terminated after you get the job when a background check uncovers the truth.

4. Write a functional resume that highlights your relevant experience instead of a chronological resume. List skills and functions related to jobs you apply for at the top of the resume. List your employment history underneath your skills and functions. Employers generally want feedback about your record of performing skills relevant to the position they want to fill. Chances are you won't need to provide a professional reference from a job where you worked in a different function.

References

• CNN Money; Will Your References Sabotage Your Job Hunt?; Anne Fisher; April 2009
• CNN Money; My Old Boss is Badmouthing Me!; Annie Fisher; December 2009
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Career Services: FAQs About References
• University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Career Services: FAQs About Functional Resumes
• AARP; Which Type of Resume Is Best?; August 2010