Arent most employers reluctant to give references?
They shouldnt be as long as they provide relevant, factual information. Giving and getting job references is a legitimate business activity in which both parties have an interest and/or liability. Even verifying the dates of employment and the job duties gives you some credible information. Asking appropriate, non-threatening questions with gentle persistence can also go far in obtaining more information. And should a previous employer fail to warn you about critical, safety-sensitive situations that employer may have liability if you hire a person who repeats a similar activity at your business. Document that you asked questions even if the employer wont answer.
