I'm a copy editor/page designer at a 25,000-circulation newspaper.

I've been keeping my eye out for other opportunities, and when applying, I've been using my news editor and our city editor as references.

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My news editor recently told me that she cannot say anything beyond basic information because of the company's policy. (She just found out about it from her superior.)

My question is, how exactly do I go about getting references if anyone who works for my company can't discuss my abilities?

I do have other references I could use, including multiple editors from internships and college professors, but I'm concerned that the people I interned with would do the same thing. Not to mention, I can't imagine it would look good if I can't use the people I've worked with.

Now, I've heard of such policies at places such as Wal-Mart but never in a professional setting. Is this common in the communications industry? And, how exactly do I get around this?

Any insight you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Secret Agent

It is very common for people in the communications industry not to communicate. You'll see.

In doing reference checks, I often run into this policy. Usually, we can work around it.

Here's what job candidates can do:

Joe Grimm

• If you have a written appraisal (one that is good), let that speak for you.

• Ask the editor to write a generic letter of recommendation.

• Ask the editor to request a dispensation from the policy, and offer to write a letter saying you won't sue if they give you a bad reference.

• Have a heart to heart with the editor (no wisecracks) and explain that a "no comment" could hurt your career and that you really need the support.
  

The policy is in place to prevent people from saying things that could hurt the company in a defamation suit. The danger of that goes way down if the editor has good things to say. Still, companies will try to protect themselves by writing simple, clear policies that will keep them out of trouble. The problem is that most employees would benefit from a complete and honest reference and a policy that forbids protection of weak performers.

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Coming Tuesday: The clips-for-copy-editors question comes back. This time, with advice from another recruiter, Joe has a better answer.

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