[Anonymous]

Hi, everyone. I am filling out application for one of the Big 4 company. My current employer does not know I am looking for another job. And I do not want them to know. The interview is gonna be on Dec. I do not want to tell my employer that I am looking for a job before I get an offer from the Big 4 company. So should I put “YES” or “NO” on the permission to contact current employer question. Do they actually contact my employer if I put “Yes”? If I put “No”, do they think I am trying to hide something. I have nothing to hide… Please help.

[Tripp11]

I personally would answer it “No” and perhaps put a footnote explaining your rationale for answering it as such.

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[soyanks]

You could say “Contingent on the extension of an offer being accepted.” Alternatively, you can say, “Reference will be provided upon request.”

FAR - 86
REG - 85
BEC - 90
AUD - 84

[Rocky123]

They usually understand if you put no. No one wants their employer to know they are looking. They wouldn't want THEIR employer to know either.

The tallest oak in the forest was once just a little nut that held its ground.

AUD-PASS
BEC-PASS
REG-PASS
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Rocky123, CPA

[Anonymous]

I usually answer “no” – I think that is quite standard. If you can say more, then go for it (like “Yes after offer acceptance” or something like that), but if it's just “Yes” or “No” then “No” should be fine.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone. I guess I will just put “NO”

[Anonymous]

Most applications say “If NO, explain why (or contact recruiter with explanation” so make sure you if you put no to follow through.

[How many letters do you need]

No no no no no no. ALL employers expect a “no” to this question for a current employer; even the all mighty big4.

MBA,CMA,CPA, CFF?, ABV?

[Anonymous]

Would your employer let you know they're looking to replace you?

[Author]

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