You could say what you just told us - that you don't want that employer to know that you're looking at other companies because you want to keep your options open.
An analogous situation would be looking for another job whilst currently employed. A prospective employer contacting your current employer could give your current employer a heads up that you're looking.
If the company you're interviewing at is, in any way, a reasonable company to work for, they should be understanding.
manpreet
Best Answer
2 years ago
I'm in my final year of university and I have a panel interview coming up soon. They asked for the two references I provided to fill out a document as a part of the process.
I interned at a company and they've given me work when semester is off. I didn't get someone from there to be a reference since the company is keen to take me on when I graduate. I didn't ask for a reference from them so I could keep my options open for employment after a graduate.
What should I say in the interview if they ask why I didn't provide a reference from the company?