Is it okay to check "no" on a job application about contacting your last employers?

Question

It says, May we contact this employer for a reference?

Is it okay to check no? Does it look bad on my part?

Answer 1

i think it makes you look bad,but say if you quit and had personal issues with your boss, your boss should be big enough to only discuss your work ethics.or you could say that you are still working for them and looking for a job on the side, so you would prefer they dont call as this will let your job know you are looking for a new job.other than that try being honest in your new interview of why you dont want them to contact your last employer. they may appreciate your honesty.i would wanna know why you dont want me to call. i mean is your last employer gonna tell me you stole money from work, was fired for sexual harrassment or was late everyday and called in sick twice a week??like i would be curious as to what YOU were hiding!

Answer 2

It's okay to check no or they wouldn't give you the option.  However, they may want you to explain why you checked no.  Hopefully, they are understanding.

Answer 3

i think it is fine. most employers know that you may not want your current employer to know you are looking for another job, them calling would give that away. I think it is common and understood, I personally don't think it looks bad at all.

Answer 4

no it does not look bad employers know a lot of people does not want their current bosses to know they are trying to leave and s***w up a bird in the hand for one in the bush you may not catch,also usually you can explain why not to the boss or interviewer if selected for an interview and they know this that is why you are given that option on an application

Answer 5

I had to do this yesterday. One of my jobs was in a company that was sold-no one is left there who knew me. So, I just added a little note about calling my one reference who did work there and knows my work.

The other place I worked for fired the boss I had. It was LONG overdue, as she was evil. But, I worked with another woman there who is also one of my references.

So, sometimes it cannot be helped. If a company folds or your boss leaves and there is no one to account for you, what are you going to do?

Just write the reason for the "no" and/or be prepared to explain it.

Good luck!

Answer 6

It does look bad.

Answer 7

I agree with maito - as long as its your present employer, which would be obvious if you indicate you're still employed there.  otherwise, for all previous employers, you should allow and provide contact information.

Answer 8

I'm facing the same dilema and was told by the unemployment office that it's okay to check no, just be prepared to answer why you did check no. I've also beent told not to be negative about the former employer, even it they were a jerk an a creep and the scum of the earth. I'm still struggling with finding something neutral to say.  Maybe someone here will come up with something.