YAJobT: For interview, they are asking for references

[rsd]

Ok so here is the deal:

Currently have a decent job, and I am fairly satisfied overall. I was directly contacted by a company recently that wants me in for an interview for a position that at least sounds interesting. I explained my situation how I am not actively looking, but obviously willing to listen if something comes along that is better.

So for my interview they want me to fill out an application among other things, that includes references. However my current employer doesn't know that I am going on an interview with someone else, and I'd rather not let them know unless I either accept that new job or try to leverage that offer to help get a better promotion shortly. Also all my professional references would be my current job because it has been where I have worked since grad school (4+yrs).

Anyway, to sum it up what is the proper way to let the company I am interviewing with know that I can provide references but I'd prefer not to supply them contingent on a job offer and my acceptance?

Also a semi-related question, one hope I have is that this new company gives me a good enough offer that I can show back to my current one to get a better promotion (due for one end of this year anyway)? What are people's thoughts on this, or could it backfire? (fyi I have a very good relationship with my current boss/supervisor/company as a whole).

CLIFFS:
1)Potential new job that wants references
2)All references would be from my current job but I don't want to let them know right now
3)What is the proper etiquette?
4)Any chance I can leverage an offer into a better salary at my current job?

Thanks if you read it this far 🙂

 

[mercanucaribe]

Get another phone and put yourself down.

 

[EagleKeeper]

Explain that you do not want them to contact the current employer.

If you try to play one employer against a future offer, you may get the current to up the ante - however, they may realize that they can not count on you and start looking for a replacement.

Then you could get the boot with no backup in play.

 

[rsd]

Originally posted by: EagleKeeper
Explain that you do not want them to contact the current employer.

If you try to play one employer against a future offer, you may get the current to up the ante - however, they may realize that they can not count on you and start looking for a replacement.

Then you could get the boot with no backup in play.

Thanks EagleKeeper.

For the 2nd part that is somewhat my concern, but I don't think they would outright fire me anytime soon, and it would take at least 6-12 months to train someone new and get them even remotely up to speed since no one in my group does what I do really.

Ultimately I plan on doing a job search eventuallyk, once I finish my MBA in about 2 years regardless.

 

[Vette73]

Do you not know someone at your current place that can vouce for you but not spill the beans as well?

That and the place I work for now was smart enough to ask if the place I was working for knew I was looking. I said yes and they called. I got the job and I really hate it. But I hate it just a little less then the last one and it pays better. 🙂

 

[rsd]

Originally posted by: Marlin1975
Do you not know someone at your current place that can vouce for you but not spill the beans as well?

That and the place I work for now was smart enough to ask if the place I was working for knew I was looking. I said yes and they called. I got the job and I really hate it. But I hate it just a little less then the last one and it pays better. 🙂

I probably could, but it wouldn't be the main people I'd want to have as references (my current boss and some of my coworkers would be the most qualified and give the best references).

I'm not REALLY looking to change jobs, but if this place wants to blow me away I figure I'm doing a disservice to myself if I don't at least listen.

I'll probably just contact the HR rep and explain it to her as you mentioned.

 

[Patt]

I've had good friends who would vouch for me from my company, but not share with anyone else that i might be looking. It is natural to be open to other offers, and most reasonable people seem to realize this. If you were actively looking, that is another issue altogether. Incidentally, I've never had anyone call references on me before I at least had an interview.

 

[rsd]

Originally posted by: Patt
I've had good friends who would vouch for me from my company, but not share with anyone else that i might be looking. It is natural to be open to other offers, and most reasonable people seem to realize this. If you were actively looking, that is another issue altogether. Incidentally, I've never had anyone call references on me before I at least had an interview.

Hmm that is a good thought. But even the people I could trust, I'd still feel a little bad because all are good friends or know my boss well. I don't want them to have to hide something from her also you know?

Also is it strange, but this place wants 9 references ?!?!? 3 supervisor, 3 colleagues, 3 customers? I don't even work with customers hehe. I think I'll have to call the HR person or email her.