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I need to provide references for a job that I’m applying for but, unfortunately, my work history is quite limited. I’ve only had two roles relevant to my industry. In one case, I was put on a performance improvement plan, delivered on my objectives but was still let go. In the second case, I believe I performed well and wasn’t reprimanded for anything but my manager and I clashed often and I don’t think they’d give me a good reference. Is there a professional way to find out whether someone will give you a good reference? What is the best course of action for me in this scenario?
Jennifer Houle, vice-president of people operations, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, Victoria
First of all, this is a really normal situation, especially early in a career. There is almost never a “perfect” work history without friction or misalignment. Reference checks are only one data point in a hiring process, not a definitive judgment of your capability or potential.
It’s also important to understand the limits around references. In Canada, employers are expected to be truthful, factual and not misleading. They can’t defame you, exaggerate concerns or speculate. Because of this, many organizations keep references fairly contained by confirming dates of employment, role and high-level performance observations. Even something such as a performance improvement plan is usually handled carefully and does not automatically translate into a “bad” reference.
Regarding the manager you clashed with, conflict doesn’t inherently produce a negative reference. Many reference checks focus on work quality and reliability, not whether you and your manager liked each other.
It’s also worth noting that references don’t have to be your direct manager or even your most recent one unless explicitly required. Strong references can come from a skip-level leader, a project lead, a senior peer or anyone who had meaningful visibility into your work, which can often be more valuable than someone who simply held formal authority over you.
And if your recent work history is limited, it’s reasonable to broaden the lens. Coursework, internships, volunteer roles, contract work and professional programs can all serve as references if they demonstrate relevant skills.
Finally, prep your references. Let them know the role, what’s being assessed and what you’d appreciate them highlighting – and always thank them for their time and support.
Simran Sidhu, HR and talent consultant, Toronto
When your work history is limited, references can feel especially high-stakes, but there are still professional ways to navigate this. First, it’s entirely appropriate to ask someone directly whether they feel comfortable serving as a reference. You don’t need to ask if they’ll give you a “good” reference.
Instead, try wording it as: “I’m applying for a new role and wanted to check whether you’d feel comfortable being a reference for me.” Most people will answer honestly, and their response, or hesitation, will give you valuable signals.
If someone seems unsure, it’s best to thank them and move on. A neutral or cautious reference can be just as damaging as a negative one, even if nothing overtly critical is said.
It’s also worth broadening how you think about references. They don’t have to be direct managers. Former colleagues, senior leadership, cross-functional partners or mentors can all be strong references if they can speak credibly about your work, reliability and growth. Especially early in a career, employers often care more about thoughtful insight than formal titles.
For roles that ended under difficult circumstances, references aren’t the place to litigate what went wrong. If it comes up in interviews, focus on what you learned, how you applied feedback and how the experience improved how you work today. Successfully completing a performance improvement plan, for example, can demonstrate resilience, accountability and coachability when framed thoughtfully.
Ultimately, the goal isn’t a flawless track record. It’s choosing advocates who can speak honestly and confidently about the professional you are now.
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