Careers Were Then Limited

I blocked a former colleague’s references after they left. The harm affected their ability to secure new work. I was contacted informally and gave cautious but damaging feedback. I concealed my intent by presenting concerns as balanced. I benefited by preventing them from advancing into competing roles. No written complaint exists because references were verbal. Their job search stalled and they moved fields. My actions remain undocumented and my reputation stayed intact. The outcome reflects my influence rather than their performance.