Today, I wrapped up my second interview for an inventory coordinator position at a logistics company. The hiring manager requested three professional references from me, which I was happy to provide. However, he made a surprising request: he asked me not to inform my references before he contacts them. He believes that this approach yields "more genuine answers" when references are caught off guard. I found this quite concerning. I understand the importance of candid feedback, but I worry about my references, especially since one of them works rotating shifts and might not answer unfamiliar numbers, and another retired last year. If they receive a call out of the blue asking about my work from years ago, they might not be able to provide the best reference. I haven't sent the contact details yet because I'm torn. I really want this job, but I also feel it's disrespectful to my references who are doing me a favor. I’m considering whether to notify them anyway or to discuss my discomfort with the hiring manager. I’m anxious that pushing back might make me seem untrustworthy. Has anyone else faced a similar situation? What would you do?