A Threads user’s job offer being withdrawn after a reference check sparks widespread debate among Malaysian netizens, with many sharing similar experiences and warning jobseekers about using managers as references.
A Thread post by user @terencekudil_ has caught the attention of Malaysian netizens after he shared his experience of having a job offer suddenly withdrawn following a reference check, triggering a wave of debate and sympathy online.
In his post, the user claimed he had already completed the interview process and received a job offer, only for it to be withdrawn at the last minute after his former manager was contacted as a reference. He alleged that the manager spoke negatively about him, leading to the offer being retracted.
The incident quickly struck a nerve, with many netizens sharing similar experiences and warning others to be cautious when listing references during job applications.
One netizen, mirarah_rarah, advised: “That’s why some people say never give your manager’s contact as a reference. It’s better to put trustworthy colleagues instead.”
“Please do not put your manager as a reference if you think he or she won’t back you up. Put someone reliable like a team leader, senior executive or senior colleague. Hope you’ll find a better job opportunity,” annur.sofi commented.
‘After this, give a reference you are really close to. Don’t give your manager’s contact. I’ve heard many cases where managers speak badly,” lune_selenophile_ added.
Some netizens questioned the hiring process itself. dolce_maleficent said: “They should allow people to go through probation. Some people may already be unhappy at their current workplace, which is why MC is sometimes necessary for mental health.”
Others shared painful personal experiences. tabalocha_kim wrote: “This happened to me too. At the last minute, the offer was suddenly withdrawn, even though I had officially resigned from my old company and even had a farewell gathering. I begged the new company for a chance, but they ignored me. I reported to the Labour Department, but my case was rejected because I hadn’t reported for duty yet. I was unemployed for three months and lost my income. Now I’m proceeding with legal action against the new company.”
Meanwhile, leahan_ob expressed sympathy: “I feel so sorry for you. Your manager was cruel to give a bad review. If you had issues at your current workplace, you might perform better in a new environment. Sometimes the work environment plays a big role.”
An HR practitioner, salyhomey, also weighed in: “In my opinion, your ex-manager may still hold a grudge. Sending emails about MC and lateness feels like trying to destroy someone’s career. Sometimes reference checks can be biased. Probation should be enough.”