Hi everyone,
I am looking for some advice because I have mixed emotions about this issue. Prior to my graduation, I worked as an aid per diem on an floor for about 3 months. During those 3 months I gave my resume to my nurse manager and said I was interested in working there and to let me know if she had any positions. I also checked in with the nurses I was working with as well as the nurse manager to get any feedback from them about my work. I always got positive responses from them.
Towards the end of those 3 months I was called into the NM's office and she let me know she had a position open. I asked about the position, the hours, start date etc. I asked for a later start date and checked if there were other open shifts with her. She said no but there was a possibility of switching. I realize that I should have jumped at anything she offered, but I did not. I think it was fate because I have a feeling I would be miserable there.
I found out through an email that I did not get the job. She emailed everyone the floor the new grads and their start dates and I was not one of them I called HR and they told me I did not get the job. I called the NM to find out what the deal was. She told me I was not excited enough about the position and others she interviewed were. Understandable. I then asked her if I could still use her as a reference, and she said of course and that I will make a great nurse.
Fast forward to yesterday... I get called in for a 2nd interview at a LTC facility. After checking my references one came up that did not put me in a positive light. They had called the NM and she had told the LTC facility that I had an attitude, felt entitled, and other unfavorable things. The LTC facility thought this odd because why would I give a bad reference? So they called me in to explain myself. I did to the best of my ability and was absolutely shocked when I saw the reference. I had 3 other fabulous references and then this one comes from left field.
I am pretty sure what she did was illegal. Is it even worth my time confronting this woman and possibly tarnishing my reputation at this facility? It's a small world where I live and I definitely do not want to jeopardize my future. Would any of you seek legal action? I am so angry and hurt about this. Thanks everyone for the help.