I was put on a PIP for dubious reasons and fired a month later, even though I followed it to the letter and beyond. My boss had things like ‘there were complaints’ but would not name names. I should have seen this coming: my boss denied me personal and vacation time, moved me to a smaller office, and told me not to worry about the PIP while all this was going on.
Shortly before I was fired, I applied for a job and got an interview. At the time I applied, I was still employed, but getting fired freed me up to go on the interview. (I did not mention I had lost my job.) I went for a second interview and was asked for references. Naturally, I didn’t include my most recent boss or coworkers, but earlier colleagues. They were universally glowing. I was extended an offer… and then came the background check.
Not only was the background check for criminal stuff (none there) — which I expected — but previous employers and reason for leaving. I was completely accurate, but for the last job I put down that my reason was ‘reorganization.’ That really was the motive behind all this: to get me out of there so they could hire a replacement for less money, as it turns out.
Now I am sick with worry. Could I get my offer rescinded over reorg vs. fired? Or will my interviews and professional references cancel it out? Of course it’s the weekend and so I won’t know anything for several days.
I’m in the USA. Verified First is the background check company.