On a job application, is it ethical to conveniently leave things off?

Question

Obviously. if I'd worked as a bank robber or had a 10-year gap in employment due to a federal prison sentence that's one thing. But I've been to college, have a teacher's credential, but I'm applying to work as a cashier. And I just feel weird...I'm actually worried that I'd be less likely to get the job...I don't know. Do I have to tell them? Will they even care?

Answer 1

just be honest.  if they ask a question then answer it honestly.

Answer 2

It's unethical - it's omission and it could get you fired if they find out.

I understand  your dilemma though.  A couple of issues come into play.

Will this job be part-time in addition to your teaching?  If so, don't worry about putting your teaching degree on the application.

Will this job be full-tie in place of teaching?  Life happens.  The economy is bad.  All types of credentialed people are looking for work.  What is your reason for applying for this job?  That's what an employer wants to know.  Are you applying for this job, or are you hoping for a temporary job till something else comes along?  The best thing to do is be honest on your application.  Good luck!

  

Answer 3

I would definitely include it.  I think it shows that you're motivated and if you have a gap in employment, that explains why.  I worked at a dining center during college and when I got my professional job, my boss said he liked to see that I worked through college to show that I'm ambitious. I think that they may be wondering why you're applying to work as a cashier if you can be a teacher, so I would put together a resume to include that explains why you want the job instead of just filling out their application that is so broad and doesn't really explain "you" aside from your past jobs and education.

Answer 4

I think you usually have options to choose from (in your head), so just choose the best of all of them as you do not have to tell them your whole life story, don't write them a book, telling every detail, what you were thinking, what he thought, what she thought, how it all went down, how it all started, just say, took care of 90 year old dad during one year gap, or if it was technically 3 years ago and 2 days for any conviction that asks within last 3 years Just say no and don't go into explaining well technically no because etc..., did I write you a book to answer your question?.

Answer 5

I would put it on there, they will probably give you more credit for telling the truth and taking a lesser job.  

Answer 6

if good tell.  if bad leave off

Answer 7

You are obligated to answer every question *asked* on an application.  But you are not obligated to answer every question implied.  I can understand your concern.  Employers are almost as reluctant to hire overqualified people as under-qualified.  And for good reason.  If you get an interview and the subject comes up, just be forthright and honest.  I suppose your intentions also come into play.  Is this a job you intend to keep, or are you just looking for something to pay the bills until you can find something better?  It costs money to hire and train people.  So if you don't really want the job, you may be acting unethically by leaving off a good reason for them not to hire you.  As in so many areas of life, there is no perfect answer.  The rule I follow is that you always owe the truth to those who have a reasonable right to expect it of you.  You could try applying this to your current dilemma and see where it leads you.  Good luck!

peace

Answer 8

Oh this is a tough one. I have worked at places where they don't hire people with college degrees because they are overly qualified. I would leave it off just in case. They can't really do anything about it if they find out about it.