Interviewing question

[tristan22]

I don't study work ethics/law, so I’m not sure what kind of rights I have as a hiree. I have always thought that a potential employer contacting a former employer is a little invasive and completely unnecessary.

Is it illegal for an employer to discuss you, without obtaining permission first?

 

[PiHiPlaya]

I'm pretty sure it's legal.

But if they do talk to an old employer and you end up not getting the job just sue your old employer for slander

 

[tristan22]

From experience, former employees are usually ticked off when you leave their company. So why wouldn't they try to prevent you from getting a new job--a job of your choice?

THis is why i'm against potential employees contacting former employees. People are bitter in general!

 

[diablo]

Originally posted by tristan22
Is it illegal for an employer to discuss you, without obtaining permission first?

Nope.

Originally posted by PiHiPlaya
But if they do talk to an old employer and you end up not getting the job just sue your old employer for slander

It'd be nice, but unless your former employer actually makes a false statement of fact that injures your reputation it doesn't count. If you were always late and they tell your potential company about it, it's not slander - it's truth.