What You Should Do If a Company or Former Employer Gives Bad References

Labor and employment attorney Diego Acevedo was cited in an Infobae article addressing the possibility of a former boss giving negative references about an ex-employee. Mr. Acevedo highlighted that Article 59 in Colombia's Substantive Labor Code prohibits certain actions from employers in references, such as a "black list" system or subjective comments that can prejudice against the potential employee. However, companies are required to confirm the existence of a employment relationship.

"Although there is no obligation in labor legislation that requires the employee to grant certifications in relation to its former workers, it must certify the existence of an employment relationship only indicating the position held and the time of service," he said.

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