Karma in a Reference Check

I applied for my dream job at a tech startup. Final round. They just needed

to check my references. My former manager, Claire, smiled when I asked. "Of course!

You were amazing. I'll give you a glowing review." Two days later: rejection email.

"We've decided to move forward with other candidates." Something felt wrong. I called the hiring

manager directly. "Your reference said you were frequently late, missed deadlines,

and had attitude problems." (dramatic pause) I requested the reference check

recording—it's legal in my state. Claire's voice, crystal clear, destroying my reputation

with lies. I forwarded it to her current employer's HR. Turns out,