A reader writes:

I was recently laid off from a large company due to our department being eliminated.  I was an exceptional employee and always received excellent performance reviews.  However, my former company doesn’t give references.  They will only verify that I was employed there and the dates.  Will not being able to provide a reference hurt my chances of being hired somewhere else?

My reply:

It is not uncommon for large companies to follow such a policy for references.  However, unless you have been told otherwise, your immediate supervisor may still be willing to provide a reference for you.  I suggest you contact your former supervisor and ask if he or she is comfortable and willing to provide you with a positive reference.  Other options are to ask former coworkers, vendors, or customers who are familiar with your work if they will be a reference for you.  The most important thing is to ensure that they will provide a good reference.  If you are unable to find anyone who can speak on your behalf, a final option is to explain the policy of your former company and provide copies of your performance reviews.