How much should I say about getting fired?

Q: I was fired for a minor policy violation. How much should I tell prospective employers about it? In interviews, do I tell what happened and hope for the best? Or do I make up a story to cover it up? Should I refuse to speak about it at all? How much can my old employers say, or shouldn't I use them as references, even though they've agreed to do it?

NICK'S REPLY: Do not lie if you're asked why you left your last job, and do not offer made-up stories to cover up the past. However, I believe the only ethical responsibility you have is to disclose anything that you believe would materially affect your ability to do the job the way the company wants it done. In other words, the less you say, the better.

Why not ask your old boss what kind of reference will be given? If you have a manager friend at another company that might consider you, ask him to call your old boss and ask for a reference. If the employer says things to intentionally hurt your ability to earn a living, you need to talk to a lawyer. If the reference is largely positive, it's worth knowing that, too. You should also line up at least two other good references at your old company. Their words will count a lot, even if your ex-boss says something negative.

If you're asked in an interview, respond candidly. Admit you made a mistake but keep it in context. Demonstrate your self-confidence and make a commitment. "My references will tell you I'm very good at my work, and I'm trustworthy. You're getting a talented, dedicated, hardworking employee who has learned a lesson, rather than someone who has yet to make a mistake. I won't let you down."

That last sentence is a very powerful commitment. You must live up to it.

Some companies will decline to hire you. Others will hire you based on what they see and hear. Then it's up to you to prove they made a good choice.

THE HEADHUNTER TIP:

Apprenticeship is another word for education.

Everyone wants to be an expert now, so they take a few courses and expect to earn top dollar. They've never heard of apprenticeship. An apprentice:

• Selects a career carefully, because it will take years to qualify for it. There's no fast track.

• Works beside a master and learns by watching.

• Pays for her education with hard work. Her dividend is new skills.

• Is paid in experience. There are no big bucks in the short run.

Ask the best people in your field how they learned what they know. I'll bet most apprenticed with a master, and they paid for their education with long hours, patience and hard work. Then they paid again by becoming masters to new apprentices.

Apprenticeship is another word for education, and it implies both learning and teaching. It's the one sure path to success.

Copyright 2009. Distributed by Universal Press Syndicate

Nick Corcodilos is author of "Ask The Headhunter: Reinventing the Interview to Win the Job" and the host of www.asktheheadhunter.com. He can be reached by e-mail at seattle@asktheheadhunter.com or at North Bridge Group, P.O. Box 600, Lebanon, NJ 08833. Sorry, no personal replies.