Thread: References for job applications

After job hunting for what feels like an eternity and applying for numerous jobs that I've thought 'That'll do for now and if I got it I'll just keep looking', I've found the perfect job vacancy.

The application says I need to give two references, one of which must be my present or most recent employer, I last worked a few years ago and left my job due to difficulties at home with childcare due to my Ex's alcoholism and I would often get phone calls to say he'd been admitted to hospital or had had a fit etc so my attendance on paper was crap, although my manager at the time was brilliant and allowed me to work hours out of my shift pattern etc to attend work. The manager who I had would've given me a good reference as he knew the circumstances but he is long gone and now I know that my personnel record would look total pants to someone who didn't know me and I don't think I'd employ me!!

I know if I got to the interview stage I would get the opportunity to explain myself and prove my life is very different to how it was then etc.
I have actually been doing what the job requires now on a voluntary basis elsewhere so know I would be more than capable but don't want to fall on the reference hurdle before I could get a chance for an interview which I am pretty sure I would sail through.

Any advice welcome

Where you've been doing it as a voluntary thing could you get a reference from them? i don't think references refer solely to paid work so if ou could get a reference from them that would get you over that hurdle.

Could the people you're working with now give you a reference? You're still working for them after all just not getting paid!

Hope you can work something out and good luck

Thanks, yeah I have been thinking that as it was quite some time since I worked for the company I mentioned that I will just give the names of the people who I have been volunteering for and who can prove I have relevant experience and if any problems arise I will then be given the opportunity to explain.

Just panicking over it I think at the moment as I REALLY would love this job!

I am always writing references for volunteers and actually sometimes it counts for more because it shows work ethic even without money as an incentive.