If a employer gives a reference to another person by stating what you did in you previous postion, could you have a claim of defamation of character or claim of invasion of privacy or a unfair labor practice.

I believe it is a defamation of character, am i correct?

Wouldn't that depend upon what the employer said?

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-defamation-of-character.htm

They said that you did a decent job for them but that you could have worked harder.

Ahh! That makes a difference.

Probably that is defamation of character.

So, would this be more defamation of character or invasion of privacy. The employeer also stated that he was late to work on different occasions.

I don't see how it's invasion of privacy. Being late for work and not working very hard are not private affairs.

When a person asks a former employer to give a reference, then s/he has given permission for information about his/her job performance.

I am not a lawyer, but I can provide some information to help you understand the potential legal issues involved. Defamation of character typically refers to making false statements that harm someone's reputation, and it can be a possible claim if the employer provides false information about you when giving a reference. However, it's important to note that truth is usually a defense against defamation claims.

Invasion of privacy generally involves a violation of a person's right to be left alone or control the use of their personal information. If the employer discloses private, personal information about you without your consent, it may be considered an invasion of privacy. However, the specifics can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances.

Unfair labor practice laws vary by country and may provide protection against certain actions taken by employers, such as retaliation for engaging in union activities or other protected activities. It's necessary to consult the labor laws in your jurisdiction to determine whether an unfair labor practice claim may be relevant in your situation.

To fully determine the applicability of these legal claims, you should consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in employment law or labor law. They will be able to provide you with personalized advice based on the specific details of your situation.