Being asked for references before job offer or interview

[waveman]

Is this standard practice now or totally un reasonable?

[Pothole]

Seems standard from some firms. Most will understand if you ask them not to contact current boss before making an offer. It's why I never use current colleagues/bosses for references anyway or have the kind of relationship with them that means I tell them when I'm looking for another job.

[hornetrider]

If it's an agency tell them to take a hike.

Politely, of course.

[bigandclever]

It's fishing.

[waveman]

I have politely informed them that it isn't standard practice and that I am more than happy to provide them if a job is offered.

Thanks for the help!

[mattnunn]

It's not unheard of, so many people are chasing so few jobs I think it just helps to weed out the people who can't or can't be arsed to communicate when asked or provide a reference.

They should definately not take up references though until you've been offered a position - this should be made absolutely clear.

[spikeyhead]

I wouldn't let the agent see the referees. If the employer wants them they can be made available once they offer me work, but not before.

[Jasandjules]

waveman said:

Is this standard practice now or totally un reasonable?

Tell them the names but say they can not take up the references until a job offer is proposed.

[JonRB]

hornetrider said:

If it's an agency tell them to take a hike.

Politely, of course.

Yup. Oldest trick in the book.

Agent says: "Please can you let me know other places you have interviews with so I don't send your CV there"
Agent means: "Please can you give me some juicy leads so that I can send in candidiates against you"

Agent says: "Please can you give me references, including your most recent employer"
Agent means: "Please can you give me some juicy leads, including the name of someone who may be hiring as you're leaving"