The simple but generic answer: as far as is necessary to convince the employer the employee won't be a serious problem. In practical terms, for permanent staff I've never gone back more than two employers covering a period of up to three years - but I'm not in a security critical field.
That all said, I think you're worrying about the wrong thing. My all means list your previous employers on your CV, but if you don't manage to convince your potential employer in the interview that you've got the right attitude for the job then it doesn't matter what your references say.
manpreet![Tuteehub forum best answer]()
Best Answer
2 years ago
I am looking for work, having had my own business for 15 years. I am keen to put few companies I have worked for (20 years ago) as a graduate. I want to do this to prove I have experience working in large organisations, I have admin skills, and crucially I have worked for someone else and will not stroll into to their offices thinking I am the boss!
We are talking about positions held 2002-2004. I am literally just putting the name of the company and my job title.
Would they check references? My name has changed since then. I have more recent references that they could draw on.