Another important part of the job search is the employment reference.
Most employers ask job applicants for references from former employers.
This allows a potential employer to determine whether you are telling the truth about your past employment and accomplishments and to learn what your former employers thought about you. Regardless of whose name you give as a reference, there are limitations on what he or she can say about you. If an employer spreads false information about you, it can damage your reputation and prevent you from finding another job. The laws of defamation and blacklisting are designed to protect your reputation and punish employers who spread reputation-damaging information. If a prospective employer calls a former employer for a reference, and the former employer gives false information, you may have the right to bring a defamation action.