Final answer:
To balance an employer's need for information with a former employer's fear of defamation liability, job seekers can use professional references, highlight their achievements, and obtain permission for reference checks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The balance between an employer's need for information about a potential employee and the former employer's fear of liability for defamation can be achieved through several measures:
- Using professional references: A job seeker can provide references from previous employers who can vouch for their skills, work ethic, and character. This helps the potential employer gather relevant information about the candidate without relying solely on the former employer's input.
- Showcasing positive achievements: Job seekers can highlight their accomplishments, certifications, and qualifications on their resume and during interviews. This allows the potential employer to assess the candidate's capabilities and suitability for the position.
- Obtaining permission for reference checks: Job seekers can ask their former employers for consent to contact them as references. This ensures that the information shared is accurate and limits the risk of defamation claims by the former employer.