reference check

cardiacRN2006, ADN, RN · Jul 10, 2006

I think they are only allowed to ask the dates that you worked there and if you are eligible for rehire. Maybe it is different from state to state?

Faeriewand, ASN, RN · Jul 10, 2006

At one hospital I know of here in So. CA they are only allowed to say yes said person worked here from this time to that time. :)

Reno1978, BSN, RN · Jul 10, 2006

I used to be in management, although it was in another industry. One thing that I would encounter is that people that I fired or that had voluntarily left the company would place my name and direct # down under the employer information on job applications. Oftentimes, I would receive phone calls from places of employment that my ex-employees were applying to. Even though I never did, I could have easily said things that were either extremely positive, or absolutely damning. However, I would always transfer the caller to our HR department, where the they could verify the dates employed and the job position.

Anyhow, I guess my point is that I would never, on a job application, put my supervisor's direct phone number. I think sometimes, a boss' impression of an employee and what the employee thinks about that impression are two different things. I actually had what I would consider one of my worst employees ask me to write him a letter of recommendation highlighting his job skills. Mind you, this was someone I fired for consistent tardiness and falling asleep on the job! For whatever reason, he thought I'd have good things to say about him. When applying for a job, I would just leave the facility's main # or the # to HR. If the HR department is doing the right thing, they will provide the proper employment verification and the questioning would stop there. Better safe than sorry!

Ms.RN · Jul 10, 2006

i would just leave the facility's main # or the # to hr. if the hr department is doing the right thing, they will provide the proper employment verification and the questioning would stop there. better safe than sorry!

thank you reno for this valuable information!!! i'll remember that!! :loveya: :yeah: :bowingpur

Jolie, BSN · Jul 10, 2006

Hello all

Can they ask to talk to the nurse manager and ask them about your personality, if you are dependable etc..

The potential employer can ASK anything they want. But most employers have policies limiting the information they will provide regarding references, to limit their liability. I agree that it is best to refer these calls to HR. An employee's HR file contains dates of employment, and statements on eligibility for re-hire. An HR employee can provide this information by reading the file, without running the risk of commenting further about an employee. The employee's direct supervisor is more likely to give additional information, which may make the employer liable if the candidate is not offered the new job.