My Background check is cleared, however my new employer still needs to contact my current HR for my current employer.
Should I resign prior to them contacting my current employer, or should I wait till that employment verification has been completed, then resign?
Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
Never resign until you have an unconditional job offer.
However, assuming this is the US, in almost every case your HR reference will be a formality. They will do no more than confirm that you worked in the position you said for the dates you said. Nor will they do less, by which I mean it is extremely unlikely that they will tell your new employers anything bad about you. So yes, you should give them permission to contact your HR before you resign. Don't worry, this is the normal way of doing things.
If you have particularly good relationship with your boss, you might like to tell him before the new company contacts HR. Make sure you do it informally and make it clear that you are not resigning. But this is only to be nice to him - it isn't necessary, and a good boss won't expect it. And be aware that it's a high risk thing to do. Some bosses will look to get rid of you if they think you are looking for another job.
I think you should talk to your new employer about it.
Your problem is very genuine. You should explain them the situation, that you have not informed in your current company that you will be resigning because you don't have a offer in hand and if they contact them right now it will be inappropriate.
It just makes sense. I think they should consider this much.
I would simply not allow it until a Firm offer is made and you have accepted / agreed to the terms of employment.
They are being unreasonable, if they won't agree to this, I would question if you want to work for them.
