Subject: Seeking Advice on a Disturbing Situation
Hello, throwaway account here.
I’m currently dealing with a strange situation involving someone with a similar name in the IT sector. We both have experience at the same company and have worked in UK Finance. A recruiter recently mentioned that there was some “overlap,” and the tone of the conversation suggested he was quite uncomfortable. It made me wonder if actions taken by someone else might be mistakenly attributed to me, or perhaps I inadvertently upset someone in my career—though I can’t recall any specific incidents related to this.
Recently, I was being considered for a new role when the recruiter suddenly informed me that the position was no longer available. He then shared a story about someone he knew who had been “blacklisted” from job opportunities. When I suggested that he recommend this person anyway, arguing that blacklisting is inherently unfair, he expressed that he couldn’t do so and abruptly ended the conversation, stating his bosses wouldn’t allow it.
This agency was completely unfamiliar to me, and I had no prior interactions with them. It appears that, for reasons I can’t understand, I’m being overlooked for job opportunities. This isn’t the first time I’ve experienced something like this in the IT sector since 2019. It raises several questions: Who is behind this? Why am I being held back? As a candidate, I find myself at a loss, only aware that I’m facing limitations.
I’ve also received calls from other agencies who seem to know more than they’re willing to disclose, hinting at information they can’t share. The IT sector can be extremely cutthroat; I’ve witnessed talented individuals lose their jobs due to jealousy or personal vendettas. In my own experience, a Programme Director once attempted to meet with me after hours, and when I turned her down—despite our good rapport—my contract was terminated the next day.
Additionally, I managed team members who were unqualified, and when I raised concerns about project delivery, I faced accusations of bullying from that same Programme Director. She misrepresented my work and attempted to shift blame. Later on, I discovered that one of the individuals on my team had a side deal with her, and my actions inadvertently disrupted that arrangement.
I’ve also been involved in projects that veered into regulatory violations. When I alerted the Data Protection Officer about potential consequences, my contract was again terminated. Any of these situations could have led to me being viewed as a problematic candidate, even though I acted ethically—something that seems to be optional in our industry.
I recognize the toxicity in this sector. Honesty can be a revolutionary act, which is why issues like the Post Office scandal arise, but as a candidate, I want to know how I can stop being blacklisted without resorting to hiring a private investigator or involving legal action. This situation is financially crippling. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
RCadmin
I’m really sorry to hear about the tough situation you’re facing. It sounds incredibly frustrating and stressful to deal with being blacklisted, especially when you have no clarity on why it’s happening. Here are a few steps you could consider taking to try and address this issue:
Gather Evidence: Start by documenting everything—notes from conversations with recruiters, details of the roles you applied for, and any communications regarding job offers or rejections. This could help identify patterns or connections between your experiences.
Network: Reach out to former colleagues and connections in the industry. They might have insights or information that could help you understand the situation better. Sometimes, having someone vouch for you can help clear up misunderstandings.
Clear Communication: If you have any specific recruiters or agencies that seem to be involved, consider directly contacting them to address the issue. A clear and respectful inquiry about your standing and any potential concerns can sometimes yield information.
Reputation Management: Look into your online presence. Ensure your LinkedIn profile and other professional profiles reflect your work accurately and positively. Sometimes, perceptions can be shaped by how you present yourself online.
Legal Advice: If you feel that you’ve been wronged or if you suspect malicious behavior behind your blacklisting, consulting with a legal professional who specializes in employment law might be beneficial. They can help you understand your rights and options.
Consider Different Recruiters: If certain agencies seem unresponsive or negative, seek out those that have a good reputation in your field. Sometimes changing recruiters can bring new opportunities and perspectives.
Self-Reflection: While it’s important to stand by your ethics, consider if there are other ways to navigate the political landscape of your industry. Sometimes understanding how to communicate your viewpoints more effectively can help mitigate backlash.
Emotional Support: Dealing with this kind of situation can be emotionally draining. Consider speaking to a mentor or a counselor who can provide support and guidance as you navigate this challenging time.
It’s a tough industry, and it sounds like you’ve been through a lot. Stay resilient, and hopefully, with time and effort, you can overcome these hurdles. Good luck!