I have a problem with obtaining references. In my last position of employment, I was harassed by a homophobic boss and candidly informed that he would make sure that I would “not work in this town again.”

An employer I was approaching went straight to my previous employer, who sent them a false but highly negative reference, destroying my chances of getting that job and sending me into a spiral of depression.

So my question is, what can I do when faced with the prospect of either not being able to furnish a reference … or having to bite the bullet and using a negative one, that being the only usable one I have?

Alex

I have spent a couple of years on Incapacity Benefit through no fault of my own. While I’ve hardly just let the world drift by, and I’ve kept the saw as sharp as possible – my field is in IT – nonetheless I am now back on the job market again.

So what is the best way of writing up my CV such that this gap of years doesn’t stand out to unkind scrutiny as if I’d served a prison sentence for something nasty?

Alex

Continue reading “Covering a year off work in your CV” »

I run a smallish business. We employed a large catering firm to provide breakfasts and dinners in our kitchen/dining room. They were poor quality and expensive.

We changed to another catering Co and now find that the same catering staff will be working for the new Co thanks to TUPE. They were rubbish before and the reason we changed Co was to get rid of them.

Are we stuck with duff catering staff for ever (staff we did not select)?

Please advise
Antoine

Continue reading “TUPE – from the business perspective” »

I got the sack from my last job because I made some serious mistakes in my work. How do I handle this in my next job interview please?

Paul Smith

Continue reading “Handling being fired in interviews” »

I am finding it extremely hard to find a job. I am 57 and although cannot be proved I am finding age discrimination is being practised. I have always worked and have to work and despairing. I am applying for jobs I am clearly qualified to do as well as having continued to update my qualifications. I am constantly trying every available avenue.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Rose

Continue reading “Age discrimination” »