Recruiters want supervisor references, but I left my last job on bad terms. What can I do?
I recently left my accounting job, and the relationship with my direct supervisor wasn’t great by the end. Now I’m job searching, and multiple recruiters keep asking specifically for supervisor-level references.
The problem is that my strongest references are not my direct supervisor. I have a Senior Accountant who trained me, reviewed my work, and worked closely with me, plus a Senior Financial Analyst/Finance Manager who worked with me on reporting, capital calls, and job cost analysis. They can speak to my actual work quality better than anyone.
But recruiters keep pushing for a manager/supervisor reference.
What’s the best way to handle this without making it sound like a red flag? Should I explain the situation directly, offer senior colleagues instead, or try to find another manager-level person who wasn’t my direct supervisor?
Would appreciate advice from recruiters, hiring managers, or anyone who’s dealt with this.