CV Writing: unfair dismissal

Friday, November 6th, 2009 - CV Tips, cv help, cv writing, employment, legal

CV Writing: unfair dismissal?

Sandy, a job seeker, asks: I got dismissed from a job, possibly unfairly, but I just accepted it. Do i have to put this in my CV, in the part where I write up my previous job experience, e.g Sales Assistant 2007-2009. In interview, do I have to mention it to my next employer? Further, will it come up if I use this employment for a reference?

In answer:
Rule1 in CV Writing is never, ever lie! However, rule2+ is never be negative.

You don’t need to mention your reasons for exiting a job on a CV: employers are more interested in skills fit rather than the reasons you left. However, at some point, either: on the job application form; or when they seek references; accept something will be revealed.

Unfair dismissal

Did the dismissal involve a legal case, such as would be the case for stealing or fraud, or were you just dismissed for a series of minor issues (eg: poor time keeping, unreliability) which systematically created a major breach of T&C’s? If in doubt, read the letter they gave/sent you.

CV Writing: dismissal

If it involved a legal case, then accept that that will come out and your chances of employment will be limited: be honest up front in interview when asked. If the later, then it is likely that all that the reference will say are the dates of employment, and the day you left. You can ask for a draft copy of any reference from your ex-employer if in doubt.

Most employers these days, if you didn’t commit a crime and just left calmly/without a fuss – and who don’t want to be sued by ex-employees for restriction of trade – will simply state dates of employment and references. If you committed a crime, or work in a regulated profession involving the elderly, youth, vulnerable or money; then they will need to state full reasons for leaving, and any misdemeanour’s during employment.

Ask for a copy of your reference, and while being positive, if in doubt be honest.

Good Luck!

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   November 6th, 2009 at 10:55 pm

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