How do you answer no to May we contact your current employer?
Answering “no” could be acceptable as long as you explain that your current employer doesn't know about your application. Simply say, “I'm sorry, but my employer has no idea that I am applying for this job.” This could open Pandora's box though.
A hiring department will find it completely acceptable to say “no” to a current employer because your job could be at stake if they find out you are seeking employment elsewhere. If the company no longer exists.
Employers ask if they can contact your previous employers for several reasons: For permission to verify your employment history during the background check portion of the candidate selection process.
Conducting a Confidential Job Search While Employed
Also, avoid taking phone calls or conducting interviews while you're on the clock at your current job. Prospective employers usually understand the nature of a confidential job search and will not contact your current employer unless given permission to do so.
- “I had been with the organization for a number of years and wanted to experience a new environment to continue growing.” ...
- “I was offered a promotion at another company.” ...
- “I left for an opportunity to advance my career.” ...
- “I was offered a significant pay increase.”
- Company downturn. ...
- Acquisition or merger. ...
- Company restructuring. ...
- Career advancement. ...
- Career change to a new industry. ...
- Professional development. ...
- Different work environment. ...
- Better compensation.
Leaving an employer because you got a better offer from a different company is a valid reason to quit your job. Whether they offered a better salary, benefits, or just a good working arrangement, you can use this as a reason for answering the “why did you leave your job” interview question.
The fact of the matter is most employers will not contact your current employer without discussing it with you first. And typically, reference checks won't occur until an applicant is further along in the process.
There is no background check that would require directly contacting your current employer. If they need proof of employment, the can use a paystub, or tax return, which you can authorize as you will.
Do employers always check references? Essentially, yes. While it's true that not 100% of Human Resources (HR) departments will call your references during pre-employment screening, most do. If you're about to begin a job search, you should expect to have your references checked.