Needs Work But No References

[barry1010]

A neighbour who I have known to say hello to for 15 years has just told me she is trying to get a job but hasn't worked for over 20 years and has no references.

As far as I know she's a bit of recluse and hasn't been raising children, caring for someone or doing voluntary work during that time.

Is it going to be impossible for her to get an interview? I'd say she's in her early 60s so has a way to go before her pension kicks in.

[Hymie]

Her C.V. should make it obvious to any potential employer that they cannot expect to get recent references for such a person – but that should not prevent them from considering her for a job.

It’s not like she will be applying for a senior position within a company; in any case many previous employers (including mine) will only confirm that you were employed by them between specified dates – if they were to give an opinion as to your suitability for a job, it could open them up to all sorts of potential issues.

[Zacs-Master]

If the employers don’t understand this, I would take it as a sign that it’s not a very good place to work. Maybe some personal references (from you maybe?) might help.

[barry1010]

I think she was angling for a reference from me but all I could in all honesty is that I know she has lived across the road for 15 years. Not much of a reference, is it?
In my experience employers state only the bare facts on the written reference but are willing to say much more over the phone, off the record.

She’s in an awkward position, it will be obvious she is only applying because she needs the money. Maybe that’s the best motivation

[Hopkirk]

Employers are crying out for new staff. She won't have a problem unless she is fussy what she does.

[DTCwordfan]

I guess that you could write 'I have known 'Neighbour' for 15 years and in that time she has proven to be a law-abiding citizen. she has also come across as a pleasant person to have as a neighbour.' And leave it at that.

[Canary42]

Under the circumstance, DTC's comment seems sensible. I guess what any potential employer is after is assurance that the barren 20 years weren't spent in jail.

[jno]

have you asked what she has done for the last 20 years? Even if it doesn't count as "work" it might be something of interest to employers.

[barry1010]

Thanks all, I'll rethink the reference

[choux]

Merely not having a prison record does not mean a person has had a law-abiding life, necessarily. Might be difficult to tell with a reclusive sort.

Perhaps she has had health problems and is being encouraged by the DWP to seek some employment now.

If she had any involvement with charity type work (even on line) that may be of interest to possible employers.

Unless barry gets involved in a more detailed chat with her it would be difficult for him to advise her, imo.

[Zacs-Master]

She must have some ‘transferable skills’ which are relevant, even if it’s keeping house, keeping a tidy garden, raising kids who’ve gone on to successful careers etc etc.