I am filling an application, it asks about previous employees.
My most recent job was an independent contractor for an arts org. I left on “good” terms but cut my contract short 2 weeks with 30+ days notice. The contract allowed for this.
The week prior they insisted I had to work for them past my notice date, I declined and boss was very rude, calling me unreasonable and laughing at me. This caused conflict, my resignation date was in the middle of their work week on a Friday and had been approved when I gave notice. They were angry that I wasn’t finishing the week (until Sunday). When I reached out to HR equivalent they told me I misunderstood and that was not asked of me… Everyone was civil and wished me the best on my last day.
There was conflict with the manager. I frequently tried to resolve this by meeting with her, she would frequently yell at me and speak badly of me to the other contractors or employees saying she didn’t like my attitude. I believe this came from me being firm when she yelled at me, telling her I’m happy to help with what she needs but to please stop yelling at me… others would just sit and take it. She told them I had to “learn my place.”
I delivered my work and fulfilled expectations laid out in the contract with good quality. Even when the work environment was unsafe or I was sick.
The manager is also in a relationship with my former boss (5+ years). And they don’t speak very much English… I frequently translated for them for the clients.
So, it’s messy… I just started my career and they were my first job out of school. If I had a vast employment history I wouldn’t worry about it… I’m stuck on this application because I want to put “No” under the “can we contact?” part but know that looks bad. Also, I was a contractor so technically they aren’t my bosses, right? I can omit them and put former bosses from unrelated fields but those jobs were from years ago and it feels awkward to reach out to people I haven’t worked for in 3+ years. Plus I don’t want my current employers called either… the job is great but short term and I started 3 days ago. Looking for employment for after.
Any advice is appreciated