What to do if my previous employer is blocking co-worker references?
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What to do if my previous employer is blocking co-worker references?
I was force to quit my job 6 months ago and I filed a EEOC complaint. In response, my former employer ordered its employees not to have any communication with me. My issue is that I had good relations with many of my colleagues and many new jobs are asking for a co-worker reference. My colleagues are scared to provide any reference about me because they fear that the employer may retaliate. I feel that the employer damaged my character and my chances to obtain a job. What are my options?
Asked on January 22, 2011 under Employment Labor Law, Texas
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
What a terrible situation that you are in here. I think that you should speak with an employment attorney in your area on this matter. Your employer is hindering your ability to obtain employment here and you need to check and see howthis is actionable under your state employment law. In the meantime you can just be brutally honest with potential new employers but I can see how that alone may hinder employment. Employers may not want someone who has a prior history of filing complaint with the EEOC. Have you filed for unemployment? You should have tried at the very least since you claim that you were "forced" to leave. Discuss that with the attorney as well. Good luck to you.
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