This is an interesting ethical question. Ethics includes questionable behavior that involves both errors of commission and omission. For many job applicants, the answer depends on how likely the applicant feels that the company will actually find out the about omission — and not the ethics of the situation.
So, consider this note to Suzanne Lucas, the “Evil HR Lady,” as reported by CBS Money Watch:
I relocated to attend school. I looked for a job for six months and finally landed one. After five months, I was released from the job (during my probationary period). Now I’m unemployed and looking for work. I have a few interviews lined up but I am hesitant to bring up my last job at the interview (it is not listed on my resume). I’m afraid if I don’t disclose it, it will come out in the background check and that if I do disclose the job I will be denied employment. I’m not sure what to do. Help!
How would YOU respond to the writer of this note?
Click the image to read the answer of Lucas.
