Job referencing

[emre43]

One of my referee's for a job application that I am putting together is my counsellor. Should I be honest and admit that she is my counsellor or should I just say that she is a friend? She told me to lie and tell them that we're friends but the thing is that the only contact details I have of her is for the charity that she works for so I think it will come across as quite obvious that she is my counsellor. Would being honest and telling them that I suffer from anxiety hinder my chances of getting the job?

 

[Rembrandt Broam]

One of my referee's for a job application that I am putting together is my counsellor. Should I be honest and admit that she is my counsellor or should I just say that she is a friend? She told me to lie and tell them that we're friends but the thing is that the only contact details I have of her is for the charity that she works for so I think it will come across as quite obvious that she is my counsellor. Would being honest and telling them that I suffer from anxiety hinder my chances of getting the job?

If your counsellor says you're friends, then I guess you're friends. Doesn't sound like a lie to me. I don't see why someone can't be both.

As to whether mentioning your anxiety will hinder your chances, I suppose that depends on the job and the person doing the hiring, but in all honesty I can't see a situation where it would help your chances, so I'd say it will either have no effect or a negative effect. Personally I wouldn't mention it, but it depends on whether you'd be comfortable doing that.

 

[Fighter86]

I wouldn't mention the SA. Somehow I think it would decrease your chance of getting the job.

I never ever mention my SA during interviews nor complain about previous employers. One thing I find most helpful is giving neutral answers when asked why you are seeking to move away from your current job. I never use reasons like not getting along with superiors/ colleagues, due to back stabbing etc. I always provide reasons like wanting to work closer to home, wanting a change of environment etc. I find such answers make employers more incline to hire you.

 

[LazyHermitCrab]

Just lie Plus maybe your councelor wants to be your friend idk

 

[Feathers]

Could you be a volunteer for the charity or such? (And maybe have even really done some volunteering for them?)
You could put in references for volunteering or professors you went along with well etc.
Some people put in friends and don't say they're friends... (?)
You can be a bit vague maybe?

I agree about giving more neutral/positive messages too.. Good luck!!

 

[Hoppy]

You're lucky, you have a friend that works at a charity.

Occasionally you make use of her professional services, but which one is more important, the friend or the therapist?