References for a job

[monty0703]

I've been in a job for a few months (taken to avoid unemployment) and have seen my ideal job advertised. I need to provide 3 references which will be checked before interview. Would it look bad if I didn't give my current employer as a reference? I'd hate to put their name down, not get the job and then have to work in an office where there would be bad feeling and knowledge that I'm only in the job until I get something better and more suited.

[Sasha13]

This is really unusual... I'm an ex Recruitment Manager and have NEVER heard of a company asking for refs before interview. In this case I certainly wouldn't give my current employer, although I would explain that on an offer of employment you'd be more than happy to supply their details.

[cascarelli]

No, I wouldn't give your present employer as a reference and I don't think it should be expected

[monty0703]

The job I am in just now asked my referees for references before the interview. I was under the impression that when applying for a job, one of the references had to be your current/most recent employee (I have seen this stated on application forms before).

[Sasha13]

what kind of role is it that you do? There is nothing wrong with saying that you do not give permission for your current employers to be contacted until your prospective employers have made you, or are going to make you, an offer. Also, not everyone gives current employers as a reference, especially if the current job doesn't have anything to do with the new one, i.e. it was taken as a stop gap like yours. You just need to be able to explain your reasons for not giving current employer.

[monty0703]

Thanks for your answers. I'm going to go for it and not put down my current employer as a reference unless they offer me the post!