Prospective employer wants to speak with my manager?

[allybear]

I'm in the process of applying for a new position. I haven't told my manager because as I've watched some other coworkers go through this process, she has made things difficult when they try to leave. I have heard stories recently where interviewers have asked for contact information for the prospective employee's current manager. How should I handle this question if I'm asked in an interview? I don't want to ruin my chances of getting a job by refusing to give that information, but I also don't want my current manager to say things that would reflect poorly on me to prospective employers. Thanks in advance!

[caliotter3]

There really is no way of getting around this. The prospective employer often will call anyway even when the applicant indicates "do not contact".

[trishmsn]

There are no sure things, but I usually note that it is acceptable to check with HR to verify employment and/or salary, but that I do NOT give permission to speak with my current supervisor unless an offer is on the table. This is actually pretty common, as most people do not wave a flag that they are "looking" for the reason you mention, and to keep options open if they don't get an offer for a while.

Often they are looking for performance input, so I always carry a list of three professional contacts with current email/phone/etc. If one of these is a FORMER supervisor or at least a person superior to you from an older job, that is frequently enough to make sure you are not an idiot or malingerer!

[guest744967]

Same boat here. Just got an interview for my dream position. Yet not sure how to break it to my current manager since they are also notorious for blocking people in. I would hate to see this dream fade from me. But I don't want to look that bad in front of the new one either by telling them hey I would like to mention something to my current if you have interest in me. Haha or heck maybe bite the bullet and notify before it. Well in your situation usually you can request not too. Or simply if they specify manager..sometimes they are willing to talk to a charge nurse. I wish you the best! Update us!