Help! Human Resource people!?

Question

I graduated from college almost 3 yrs ago w/honors. However, my last "real" job on my resume was 5 yrs ago, since then I worked in nightclubs, in which I was paid mostly cash, but payroll checks as well. I absolutely do not want to include this in my work history.

I make good money, but I am very ready for a real job again. I am not interested in starting a job in the corporate world in an entry level, low paying position, therefore, I need to fill in this gap.

I have friends that own businesses that are willing to vouch for me and say I worked there, or I was considering saying that I worked freelance as a consultant, using my friends as references. I hate to lie, but I won't even get an interview for a decent job otherwise. I am worried that I would be found out during the background check. How deep do employers go into your employment history?

What other advice could you give someone in my situation?

Wow there are a lot of self-righteous people out there. I guess NO ONE ever lies on their resume I am amazed. And I think some of ya are a wee bit paranoid on how far employers check into your background...I mean come on, they even know my shoe size?? LOL!

Honestly may be the best policy but lets get realistic we all live in the real world. Well, some of us.

I do see your point on the benefits/reality of considering an entry-level position tho...its just gonna be hard for me because I have worked my butt of between work and school, just to start at the same spot as someone 5-6 yrs younger than me sux..but you're right, sometimes ya gotta bite the bullet.

Answer 1

It is getting much more difficult to fake employment. But sure you can try. The problem with trying to fake it, there have to be a lot of people in on it. First, when you put down your previous employer and contact name and number on a consent or application, we never call that number or name. We always ask for human resources or personnel to confirm dates and position because of this very situation. Now you have to make sure that your friend tells his HR person, and you have to hope that person answers the phone and remembers what they are suppose to say. Plus you run the risk of it coming out later and being terminated on the spot, then try explaining that to the next company.

Answer 2

I'd advise you to tell the truth. There is nothing wrong with having worked in a nightclub, and if it is not relevant to the job you want, then don't list what you did. You did whatever it was to get through and earn the money you needed to live.
As an employer, if I discovered that you had lied, and gotten others to "vouch" for you, I'd not only fire you, I'd call the other businesses and let them know what was going on. What you are suggesting is fraud, and nothing less. And employers sometimes do delve into your work history, which we can get in several ways, including a simple online search. I'll tell you now that many corporations use these, and would catch you. You definitely won't get hired if that happens.
Be honest. There are employers out there who have been where you are, and who will understand. Even in the corporate world there is room for understanding. It is likely that prospective employers will be impressed by your ability to work hard, and to work the long hours that nightclub employees often do. Give them the opportunity to know who you are. Even if you simply chose to work outside your field for a while, and want to re-join the corporate world, be up front about that. You've spent time away, and now you're sure about what you want. This is a plus to many employers, not a hinderance.
I don't know what field you're in, but your flat refustal to start at the bottom kind of bugs me. I know people who have started as receptionists, and moved up to high high levels in the company I work for. I believe one is now a VP. (And I work for a multi-national financial services corporation, not some dinky two-man operation where she was just given a title). There's nothing wrong with putting in some hours to get where you want to be. I'm doing it, why shouldn't you?

Answer 3

Do not lie - that will always come back to bite you in the butt. And I would include your nightclub work history because it shows that you were responsible and had customer service skills.

I don't see why you are so picky about not looking at entry level positions. You didn't say what you were doing prior to the nightclub work, so that may be the only type of position that you're qualified for. Besides entry-level doesn 't mean you will be there forever.

Answer 4

I am assuming that you have been a dancer for the past 5 years ("cash...payroll checks").

I agree with the other postings "Do not lie". Besides, you have done nothing illegal. At this time you are simply looking for a "career change".

What is your degree in? If you haven't used what you learned in college for the past 5 years, and kept up to date, you would be fortunate to get more than an entry level job. So the question to you is how badly do you want a "real job"?

Answer 5

Here goes!! Keep this- #1:NEVER lie, don't let your friends lie for you, I could write a book on what 1 lie can do - better still - look at President Bush's lie - look at what happened to PM Tony Blair! Need I say more? 2: Yes, businesses, especially to-days market, check everything. They will access your credit line - do you know what they find there - everything - your INCOME,your LIFESTYLE, who you OWE, your phone payments, then they have access to who you call!They know your shoe size and what underwear you buy. So YOU will get CAUGHT, if not there, when the company requires you to be "bonded". You have missed the most important ASSEST you have! Your highly developed communication skills, interpersonnel skills! I strongly suggest you go to a "Head Hunter" - it may cost you where you live, but if anyone can take your "Honours" Degree and combine your last 3-years of work history, he/she will. Guarenteed! Here are a few suggestions for you: The Government - Department of Licences, Liquor Control Board;(these people grant the licence, all meet and greet work, have to have a highly developed skill with people of all cultures;be able to read body language (ex:lying to you)!!A second suggestion: Any of the Brewing Companies, Liquor Companies;Wine, etc - All of these companies will embrace your last 3-years of work experience - its to their benefit!Think of a Regional Sales Mgr;Customer Service Representative - believe me these guys make G R E A T money, company car, expenses, and meet and greet all upper society,celebs,music icons,etc - All of these jobs you travel a lot - There are many executive-type paying positions out there - even double if you speak more then 1 language - there are also some excellent "posting boards" on the net - Good Luck - be honest -and all will work out - never lie darlin! believe me it will backfire on you when you least expect it or are even prepared for it.

Answer 6

Swallow your pride and get a job in the corporate world.
Work part time at night and on the weekends, cut back your expenses.
Do not lie, just put down the facts.
Will your skill set, personality match a specific job profile?

Answer 7

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Answer 8

Offer to prove yourself and your abilities for working for a day for free. I did that once and was hired on the spot....and within 2 months I got a $2.00 an hour raise and 3 months later I got $3.00 more an hour....