Discussions

How does someone get another job when their current company doesn't give references? Especially if that person has worked with a particular company for over 5 years? Let's say this person no longer has contact with references from employers further than 5 years.  
 
Volunteer work could be one, but many places specifically request a supervisor reference and won't consider a co-worker or personal reference.  
How can this be done if your company won't provide one? How can this person improve their situation and move on to bigger things if they can't get a supervisor reference from their long term workplace?

That's certainly an odd tactic by your employer. Personally, I would put down your direct supervisor anyway. When you get to the stage in a new job search where they are calling references, I tend to doubt your supervisor would just hang up and refuse to talk if asked.

If you use someone's name as reference make sure they know you are using it. Spouse kept getting phone calls for references from employers and finally started telling employers that check the person's resume they have had a lot of jobs that should tell you something about the person's work ethic. If you have worked for 5 years at one job that is a good start.