Job interview, references, need advice (on the long-ish side)

[almacdonald]

So, the job I'm working in is rather dead-end. I sit at my desk and think, you know, once i finish this project I'll move on to another project just like it. Nothing new, ever. No advancement, nothing. Needless to say I'm not enjoying it too much.

Well, I've applied to a few positions around town and trust me, junior geologist positions are hard to come by! I got a phone call tonight for an interview next week. That gives me exactly 6 days and 5 hours to figure out what to do for references!

I haven't told my boss that I'm looking for a new job. We don't really have a great relationship because, well, the oil and gas industry is dominated mostly by the old boys club. He really has no clue what I do as far as work goes. My immediate supervisor is not a good reference choice either. He's a sexist pig (but that's a topic for another thread!) He's quite immature and I don't really think i can trust him to accurately portray the hard work I have put in. I also don't want to be treated differently if i do not get another job right away.

The job i'm working at now is my only pertinant work experience. I mean, i worked in retail a couple of years ago, but can I still use my managers there as references? What would you guys do in this situation? Would you be straight up and ask the boss for a reference or what?

Thanks for any advice anyone can give me. I'm really stuck. I should be looking forward to my trip but right now I'm stressed about this job interview!!!

 

[clh2]

Personally- I would not give your current employer even the tiniest hint that you are looking for a job. That is the quickest way for them to find a reason to fire you. If you can't afford to not be working while you are looking, then do not use your current employer.

For professional references - I would use the retail managers you had- they'll be able to say a good word or two about basic things, like you show up for work on time, etc.

If this is your first job, do you have any teachers/professors that you could use? Do you do any volunteer work anywhere, could you use any of those contacts?

Good Luck!

There are several people who go on the DIS who are in the HR area - I'll bet they'll have some ideas for you too.

 

[Planogirl]

Do you have any coworkers you could use as references? Or a friendly management person from another department? You don't necessarily need someone who supervises you but usually someone who has worked with you is adequate from what I understand.

I agree that college professors and retail associates can make fine references. Many potential workplaces will also ask if it's OK to contact your current employer and you should be able to say no without any problems.

Can you tell that I've spent a LOT of time researching and dealing with jobhunting?

 

[azgal81]

Good luck on the job hunt! I think if you don't include a reference from your current job they might wonder why and contact them anyway!

I used a co worker I have done projects for in my resume for my promotion as well as my current supervisor. If you don't have a good relationship with your boss you might want to go with at least one co worker from your current job and the managers from your last job possibly.

 

[Poohnatic]

If you have people who can answer questions about your work habits and performance, that will work. College Professors and former bosses.

Many employers understand that you may be reluctant to 'tip your hand' that you're seeking another job and will accept references other than your current boss.

I just started a new job, and the reference I gave was my supervisor of four years. That was enough, they didn't even call anyone else.

Suzanne