Jer

I have to write a work ref for someone. What do I include? Does anyone have a template?

TopBanana

Don't go into too much detail, just say that you'd be happy to recommend them or employ them again.

MarkO

The other option is to get the person you're writing the reference for to actually write the thing (since they'll know what they want to say for the job). Assuming they don't take the p*ss too much, you can just put your name to it. That's what I've done before (written my own reference) and it works out best for both parties.

IIRC it's illegal to give somebody a bad reference, so if they were cr@p, all you can do is not give a reference at all.

RB5320

there are 2 schools of thought here though - if you give someone a bad reference (even if its all true) you run the risk of being sued, unless you can prove 100% that what you say is true. On the other hand, if you give someone a glowing reference, when in reality they were a complete waste of space, always late, lazy, corrupt, whatever, it is not inconceivable that you will have trouble from the company who employs them based (partly) on your reference. So you cant win. The norm is something along the lines of "X worked here from ... to ..., was punctual and performance was generally satisfactory. We can therefore recommend them"

Steve

TopBanana

Is it really illegal to give a bad reference? I always assumed that was B.S.

Badger Stuffer

jlanng......What....Me? (BS)

fatherpierre

It's not illegal as such, but you can be sued.

south-star

I'd like to know that too..and do you have a right to see a reference made about you?

As for getting hassle from a future employer about giving a good ref for a poor worker,i'd doubt that very much.

ChristianR

iTrader: (1)

Dear [Mr Future Employer]

Re: [Potential employee]



Thank you for your enquiry in relation to the above named. It is our policy to confine such references to the confirmation of factual data concerning the individual’s employment with the Company. Judgement as to aptitude and suitability for other appointments must remain the sole responsibility of prospective employers.

For your assistance we confirm that [potential employee] was employed by our company from dd.mm.yy to dd.mm.yy in the capacity of [job title].

This reference is supplied in good faith and on the understanding that the Company accepts no liability for the accuracy of the statement herein. It must not be disclosed to any third party without the express permission of [my company].



Yours sincerely



Name.