How do you tell an interviewer not to contact your current employer?

During a job interview, the hiring manager may ask for permission to contact your current employer as a reference. However, in certain situations, you may prefer not to disclose that you are actively seeking new job opportunities. For instance, you may want to avoid tipping off your boss or colleagues or creating an uncomfortable situation at work. In this case, you can politely request the interviewer not to contact your current employer.

Here are some tips on how to request an interviewer not to contact your current employer:

Be upfront and honest

It’s essential to be honest with your potential employer about your preference not to contact your current employer. You can start by saying something like, “I would prefer if you don’t contact my current employer at this stage.” Be honest about your reasons for not wanting to involve your current employer.

Explain your reasons

Your interviewer may be curious as to why you don’t want them to contact your current employer. Be prepared to provide valid reasons such as not wanting to jeopardize your current position, wanting to avoid a premature disclosure of your job search, or avoiding unnecessary attention from your colleagues.

Offer alternative references

It’s always a good idea to have a few alternative references ready to share with the interviewer. These references could be former colleagues, supervisors, or even clients. Be sure to provide accurate contact information and brief background information about your relationship with each reference.

Reassure the interviewer

It’s understandable for a potential employer to want to contact your current employer to gain insight into your work experience and performance. Reassure the interviewer that you are confident in your qualifications and are willing to provide references that can attest to your skills and achievements.

Be courteous and professional

Remember to remain polite and professional throughout the conversation. Avoid sounding defensive or confrontational, as this may create a negative impression. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your qualifications and your eagerness to pursue the position.

Examples

Here are five examples of how to tell an interviewer not to contact your current employer:

“While I’m happy to provide references for my past work experience, I would prefer if you don’t contact my current employer at this time. My current position is sensitive, and I don’t want to create any issues at my workplace. Is there any other information I can provide you to help with your decision?”
“I’m excited about this opportunity, but I would prefer if you refrain from contacting my current employer. I’m not ready to disclose my job search to my colleagues yet. However, I have other professional references who can speak to my skills and work experience. Would that be sufficient?”
“Thank you for considering me for this position. To maintain a positive relationship with my current employer, I would prefer if you didn’t contact them at this stage. However, I have a few professional references who can attest to my qualifications and work ethic. Would you like their contact information?”
“I’m flattered that you’re interested in my application, but I’m not comfortable with you contacting my current employer. I want to avoid any misunderstandings or issues that could arise. I can provide you with other references who are familiar with my work and can speak to my capabilities.”
“I would like to request that you don’t contact my current employer until later in the hiring process. My current job is important to me, and I don’t want to jeopardize my position until I have a firm job offer in hand. However, I have other references who can speak to my qualifications and experience. Would you like their contact information instead?”

What is the 10 most important thing to do when going for an interview?

By following these 10 steps, you can prepare effectively for your interview and increase your chances of making a positive impression on the interviewer.

In conclusion, requesting an interviewer not to contact your current employer can be a sensitive matter. However, by being upfront and honest, explaining your reasons, offering alternative references, reassuring the interviewer, and maintaining a courteous and professional demeanor, you can navigate this situation with confidence and professionalism.