How To Answer “May We Contact This Employer?” (With Examples)

How to Respond to “May We Contact This Employer?” (With Examples)

Summary. When asked, “May we contact this employer?” it’s generally advisable to say yes unless you have a legitimate reason to decline, such as wanting to keep your job search discreet from your current employer. Agreeing shows hiring managers that you have nothing to hide and gives them the opportunity to learn more about your professional background.

During your job application process, you’re likely to encounter the question, “May we contact this employer?” This inquiry can be tricky, especially if you’re currently employed and wish to keep your job search confidential or if there are other complications surrounding your past employment.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to approach this question, valid reasons for declining, and provide sample responses to illustrate our recommendations.

Key Takeaways

Employers inquire about contacting previous employers to verify the accuracy of your employment history.
It is perfectly acceptable to request that hiring managers refrain from contacting your current employer.
Always check with former employers before listing them as references.

How To Answer 'May We Contact This Employer'

In This Article

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Why Do Employers Ask “May We Contact This Employer?”
How to Answer “May We Contact This Employer?”
Examples of How to Decline “May We Contact This Employer?”
Things to Consider When You Encounter “May We Contact This Employer?”
Valid Reasons for Declining to Contact a Previous Employer
Frequently Asked Questions: May We Contact Previous Employer?
Final Thoughts
References
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Why Do Employers Ask “May We Contact This Employer?”

When hiring managers and recruiters ask if they may contact your previous employers, they aim to ensure transparency in your employment history.

In addition to reviewing resumes and cover letters, hiring managers seek candidates who are confident in their past roles. This inquiry allows them to verify your qualifications and accomplishments, as well as to understand details about your tenure, salary, and reasons for leaving (whether you voluntarily left or were terminated).

How to Answer “May We Contact This Employer?”

While it’s ideal to permit hiring managers to contact your former employers, here are some tips if you prefer to decline:

It’s acceptable to decline contacting your current employer. It’s common for candidates to say no to this question regarding their current employer. Hiring managers understand that individuals often seek new opportunities while still employed, and they don’t want to jeopardize your current position.
Consult your former employer’s HR department first. Understanding your former employer’s policy on reference checks can help you feel more comfortable with your response. Additionally, HR may provide a more neutral reference than your direct supervisor.
Reach out to your former supervisor. If your supervisor had a positive relationship with you despite any formal circumstances, consider listing them as a reference (with their permission). The same applies to any coworker who can vouch for your work ethic and contributions.
Clarify any termination circumstances. While your resume may not be the best place for this information, including a brief explanation in your cover letter can demonstrate your proactive approach to resolving past challenges.
Consider mentioning another contact at the company. If someone else in the company can speak to your work, consider providing their contact information for verification purposes.
Omit the employer from your resume if necessary. In extreme cases where contact could harm your job search, consider excluding that employer from your resume altogether.

Refusing to allow the hiring manager to contact any of your previous employers can raise red flags, so aim to say yes whenever possible. Too many “no” answers could jeopardize your chances of progressing in the hiring process.

Examples of How to Decline “May We Contact This Employer?”

What if you need to decline the request to contact a specific employer? Here are some examples of how to explain that in your application:

Typically, applications will have space for notes regarding your employment. If you must decline contacting an employer, ensure you provide a brief explanation.

Current Employment Example:

I am currently seeking employment outside of my present company without their knowledge. If you wish to speak with them about my role, I can provide their contact information should I receive a job offer.
Deceased Employer Example:

Unfortunately, my previous employer has passed away; however, you may contact Mr./Ms. XYZ to discuss my position in the company.
Non-Existent Company Example:

The company is unfortunately out of business, so there will be no HR department to contact regarding my employment; however, you may reach out to Mr. XYZ, one of my former managers, for insights about my work.
Former Manager No Longer Employed Example:

Regrettably, my previous manager no longer works at the company, and I cannot provide their contact information. However, you can reach the current manager, Ms. XYZ, who is familiar with my work during my time there.
No Reference Policy Example:

Regrettably, you will not be able to contact this employer due to their strict no-reference policy for former employees.

Things to Consider When You Encounter “May We Contact This Employer?”

When responding to “May we contact this employer?” keep the following points in mind:

Generally say yes, unless you have a compelling reason to decline. Declining may disqualify you in the initial screening for some companies. If you must say no, be sure to explain your reasoning.
Always consult your previous employer before listing them as a reference. This is a professional courtesy and ensures that your contact is still valid and that the company does not have a no-reference policy.
If you decline, ensure there are alternative references available. This could be another former employer or a different colleague at your current workplace.
Just because you agree to contact doesn’t mean they will follow through. Many companies only reach out to references when they are seriously considering hiring you, so having several “no” responses may not have the negative impact you fear initially.
Keep in mind that defamation laws protect you. If contacted, your previous employer cannot legally provide false or damaging information about you.

Valid Reasons for Declining to Contact a Previous Employer

Here are some acceptable reasons for a hiring committee to be unable to contact a previous or current employer:

If you wish to keep your job search confidential from your current employer. It’s completely acceptable to decline for your current employer, as your position could be at risk if they discover you are seeking new opportunities.
If the company is no longer operational. If the company doesn’t exist anymore, your potential employer will not expect to contact anyone from that organization.
If your previous employer is part of a small international company without English-speaking contacts. While you can still say yes, it may not be feasible for them to reach anyone.
If your previous employer has passed away. You can indicate “no” in this case but should provide a contact at the company who can speak on their behalf.
If the company enforces a no-reference policy. Some companies have strict no-reference policies, so indicating “no” for those positions is entirely valid. Just clarify this in your application.

Frequently Asked Questions: May We Contact Previous Employer?

Can I list a personal reference?
No, personal references should generally be avoided. Family members, friends, or spouses may be seen as biased, which could jeopardize your application.
At what stage do employers typically contact a previous employer?
Employers usually contact previous employers near the end of the hiring process. This often occurs after interviews have taken place.
How can I find out what a previous employer said about me?
You may not be informed about what a previous employer says. You can inquire, but they may be reluctant to share due to confidentiality reasons.
Should I inform my references that they might be contacted?

Yes, it’s important to inform your references that they may be contacted. This is courteous and ensures you have the correct contact details.

If possible, let them know who will be reaching out and provide them with a copy of your resume to refresh their memory about your contributions.

Final Thoughts

recruiter or hiring committee’s perception of you can be challenging, especially if you have faced negative experiences in previous workplaces.

However, with careful planning, you can avoid discomfort when it comes to hiring departments reaching out to previous employers about your performance.

Strive for transparency in your job applications. Taking a few moments to gather your former boss’s contact details can significantly impact your job prospects.

A little extra effort could make a difference in securing your next opportunity.

References

Forbes – How to Answer “May We Contact Your Current Employer?”
The Balance – How to Follow Up With Your References

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Author

Heidi Cope

Heidi Cope is a former writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog. Her writing focused primarily on Zippia's suite of rankings and general career advice. After leaving Zippia, Heidi joined The Mighty as a writer and editor, among other positions. She received her BS from UNC Charlotte in German Studies.

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