When searching for a new job and nearly about to receive an offer, what do you do when you get asked for references?I'd rather not let my current employer know I'm seeking new employment. Plus, they won't exactly be happy that I'm leaving and I'd rather not ask for a reference whilst they're cheesed off with me.

I work for a small firm by the way.

I've found you can request references are not taken up until after an offer has been made (which is then subject to those references). Never had a problem with asking for that. Secondly I believe that it is usual for references these days to be v bland - "person x worked for us as position y from date n to date m". They will have nothing to gain from being mean to you. If you suspect they might be, then consider using previous employers as additional referees in case of any issues. http://www.cipd.co.uk/subjects/recruitmen/references/references.htmThe link above has some information you may find useful on the legal position.

Thank you goldhill, that is very helpful.Do you have any advice about how to handle the situation when they specifically want to call my line manager to obtain a reference (i.e. to talk to them on the telephone)?My line manager is an uncompromisingly down-to-earth kind of person, and my worry is that his blunt opinions will convey the wrong impression about me. He's quite a negative person by nature and I'm worried that he would unintentionally (or maybe even deliberately if he's unhappy with my resignation) dwell on my 'development needs'.

IMHO I wouldnt give any references to anyone until there is an offer letter/contract and it has been signed. If you're going direct then, no problem, give em by all means, but if you've going through an Employment Business, then, be careful. If asked by the agent, say that you will give the references directly to the end client.There are a lot of dodgy recruitment consultants out there who just phish for your references and call them up, offering their services.

Thanks Jammy, that's also helpful to know.Following yours and goldhill's advice, I'm planning to give details of my references only once an offer has been made (or an offer that is 'subject to references'). I'm not worried about them checking factual aspects of my employment history, but I'm worried what response they might get from my line manager if they start informally asking open questions such as "what do you think are his strengths/weaknesses" or "what is his approach to XYZ like". As mentioned earlier, my line manager is naturally a negative/cynical kind of person, and I'm worried that he could give them the wrong kind of impression. There could also be 'sour grapes' as it's a small company that I work for and he may well feel betrayed/let down.Any other thoughts/suggestions about how to handle this situation?

anon,If they make you an offer, they want you on board (like my reasoning? I'm so clever!). If they have more than a modicum of intelligence, they will be able to filter out any residual bitterness expressed by your current boss and should be looking to confirm the facts of your previous job.

Thanks Jammy, that's also helpful to know.Following yours and goldhill's advice, I'm planning to give details of my references only once an offer has been made (or an offer that is 'subject to references'). I'm not worried about them checking factual aspects of my employment history, but I'm worried what response they might get from my line manager if they start informally asking open questions such as "what do you think are his strengths/weaknesses" or "what is his approach to XYZ like". As mentioned earlier, my line manager is naturally a negative/cynical kind of person, and I'm worried that he could give them the wrong kind of impression. There could also be 'sour grapes' as it's a small company that I work for and he may well feel betrayed/let down.Any other thoughts/suggestions about how to handle this situation?

Sorry about the accidental double-post.

If you are really concerned that your ex line manager (assuming you are offered the position) is likely to be unbalanced in a reference, then by all means mention your concern to your future employer as and when they request the reference - simply state to them that this particular manager has a xyz tendency, regardless of the individual. Also refuse point blank to allow anyone details of your references until you have signed on the line that is dotted...