Within the past few months, my boss has advised that he has been slowing down towards retirement.
Therefore I have been searching for a new position, in a state I really want to live in.
I have received several interview opportunities, and have even been given notice that an offer is coming.
My boss and I get along very well, and I have been with the company almost 9 years. I have survived/stayed through multiple other employees coming and going. The boss's wife has even gone to say that its family here. (I am the only employee and have been for the past 4 years) .
This new potential offer inquired if my boss would be willing to give a reference and based on how we have operated, I did not see any reason why they would not be willing to do so, and notified the potential employer of such.
However, ever since the potential employer contacted them, they have been refusing to do the reference as they are concerned about the business. I even went so far as to offer to work part time remotely in the new state for them at the same rate of pay.
His wife and daughter assist him in HR matters as he is a little bit older, and after speaking with both of them, it became clear that he won't sign the letter without conditions.
My questions are: Is this legal? How influential is his reference? Could it damage my change at this job?
We have a meeting tomorrow to discuss the terms….and there really is no need for terms. It's like I am being held hostage….what should i do or say?
Please help.