[alloverit]

Okay,

So I finally found my dream job. All I have to do now is get it.

I was going through the online process and got to a part requesting “letters of recommendation”.

My assumption was that I would provide a resume, etc. and that contact information for my references would be provided so that the employer could contact references directly. Instead, I found that the employer wanted ME to upload the letters of recommendation myself.

Now, I’m not lazy and I have no problem doing that. But to me that sounds VERY disrespectful to request my references to write a letter for me that I will then upload (meaning I can read it). My belief is that I would almost certainly offend at least one of my references by asking them for a letter that I could read.

To be clear, this is NOT a situation where they’re requesting references to mail in hard copies in sealed envelopes with a signature across the flap. They want me to take the hard copy, scan it, and then upload it. I’m very uncomfortable even asking a reference to agree to such a thing.

Is the process above a common practice these days? Thank you

[Recked]

You can just ask for a reference letter. The writer delivers it in a sealed envelope to you, you then open, scan and upload.
They don't need to know that you will be reading it? I think you're making more out of this than you really need to. Actually reminds me of a recent episode of the Goldbergs I just saw talking about reference letters in sealed envelopes.

[GoCart]

This also seems weird to me and I would be uncomfortable in the same situation; however, if it's the job you want, you'll have to do it. I like Recked's recommendation to request a letter in the mail. I find it odd that they would rely on something you could easily manipulate but what do I know…
I doubt anyone that is on your reference list would be offended by you asked for a recommendation letter and I'd hope that they'd be more than happy to.
Good luck!

[Tncincy]

Hey, You want the job? Do what they ask, no matter how suspect it might sound. They don't believe you're going to ask someone to give you a bad reference, or that you will submit a knowingly bad reference. So, I would get the references and send them in.

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[watermelon]

I guess it has something to do with the industry or position? They are asking a lot though…

I just got an offer from a hospital and they asked 5 references including every single manager I worked for, which I thought is already a lot to ask… haha yours is crazier. I kinda negotiated with HR and only provided 4 references. but when I worked for banks, I was never asked for reference though.

[alloverit]

I realize my scruples may be getting in the way, but usually when I think something seems unethical/improper it usually is…and I say that as someone who is often willing to “go with it”, lol. I'm in no way a “stickler”, but something about taking all those ethics classes and tests makes me question the process.

It screams to me of an HR move so that everything is bundled into one neat package (no need to reach out to each reference). It also effectively fits the “checks the box” mentality of so many HR departments. I suppose deep down it makes me question the “dream” part of the “dream + job” equation. That's all

[MaLoTu]

I don’t think it is unethical; however, it is very inconvenient for you and your references. IMO references should only be requested when you have been selected for the role. Why waste someone’s time on a huge maybe?
I would also question the culture of the company. I think your thoughts on whether this is the best company to have the job at are valid.
Is this like a fortune 10 Company?

[Author]

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