JacquelineM's picture Submitted by JacquelineM on
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Career Management

 Hi,

   I'm job hunting while still employed. I was thinking of asking a former member of my team if asked for a reference from my current employer since I can not ask my supervisor (and would not want to ask one of my current staff). I am not particularly close with any colleagues from other departments so I don't think there would be anyone else at my agency that I would ask. I'm wondering what people's thoughts are on this. I think it would be helpful for a potential employer to hear about my management style from someone I actually managed, but I'm not sure if that's something that is frowned on.  I'd appreciate any opinions.

Thanks,
Jackie

olathe's picture
Submitted by olathe on Sunday August 26th, 2012 1:07 am

Jackie,

I have a former employee as one of my references.   I chose him because he communicates well and knows my work.  He is enthusiastic when he gets a chance to talk about the team we created together and its goals.  We worked together daily for over 10 years.  He knows my management style, my project management successes, my collaboration abilities.  He moved up into my management position when I left.  He was very happy that I asked him to act as a reference. Professionally, I suppose he's a peer at this point.

You're saying he/she is at a previous company.  I don't know of any taboo against asking a former employee at a previous company.   I'll be interested to hear what others have to say on the topic.

Olathe