Hi Amy, Sorry you had that experience. I suppose the specific answer is "i don't know". I mean, people can do crazy things and it sounds like your ex 'new supervisor' acted out of ill emotions and not common sense.

That said - here's what usually happens. First - the info will usually only be out there if a new prospective employer proactively calls your old employer to check information on your resume/application or to get a reference check on you. Either the call will be routed to an HR group who will be very sparse with info and just confirm dates of employment, or it might get to the person you are concerned with. Usually people will either be glowing with positive information about the candidate or will be very reserved and quiet. A former supervisor doesn't really need to talk much to get across the idea that they aren't interested in providing positive info. And the lack of positive things indicates the negative. If your former employer IS the kind who starts trash-talking of some sort, either the person listening will be able to tell that there is likely another side to the story and take it in stride, or they might be affected. Here's the thing though. Anyone finding their way to that negative person -will find their way to others. So that voice will get diluted if you have left a decent trail of other coworkers and supervisors who would speak highly of you.

What you can do? -- Be proactive connecting prospective new employers with people at your former company who WILL give you strong recommendations. Other former managers, or even coworkers. Help that 1 negative voice get drowned out in the chorus of support. Most people are willing to help out - they just have to be asked.

Hope this helps. Good luck, Amy. And good luck finding a company with a supervisor who you will enjoy working for. Best, Fred