First of all, thank you for your articles, it has been more than 2 years that I follow them and it’s really interesting and helpful.

My question is” Could a conflict with my previous employer harm my career?”

I have worked with my previous employer for 6 years where I suffered from discrimination. Once I got the opportunity to immigrate to a developed country I just transferred all the important folders to my co-workers and left, then the employer sued me in justice because I didn’t accept the 3 months prior notice that he required.

How can I handle this issue especially when recruiters ask about references during the interviews?

Thank you

Yes, you are correct. This could have implications for the rest of your career if you don’t plan and handle it carefully.

Obviously with the wisdom of hindsight it would have been better to give what notice you could and ask your employer to waive the need for the rest of it, but life is not always like that, I know.

You need to compose an explanation that, whilst truthful, shows the best side of you that you can. I don’t think it is particularly helpful to mention discrimination, it may worry potential employers that you may accuse them of that in the future.

Instead I would just say you got the opportunity to emigrate to a developed country, but the offer was time limited because ……..( insert reason ) There was a necessity to travel on or by a certain date, a job waiting for you there, family were leaving, visa requirements.

Then say that your employer was unhappy that you left without serving notice, despite your careful handover, and so you prefer not to name him as a referee. But nominate at least two other suitable people, three if you can – teachers, lecturers, friends who are professionals, landlord. Ask their permission before you do so.

I hope this helps