What are the consequences of lying during a job application?
Lying during a job application, such as about your work experience, qualifications or skills, can have serious consequences. Such misleading information can lead not only to dismissal, but also to other legal complications. This blog post discusses the possible consequences of lying during a job application or on your resume.
Lying about degrees and work experience
In many cases, lying about work experience or falsifying a diploma can be grounds for dismissal. This applies even if the falsehoods are only discovered later, for example years after employment. This happened, for example, in the case of an employee at Sjaloom Zorg. She had indicated on her resume that she had completed a MBO education, while she had not obtained her degree. It also turned out that her work experience was incorrect.
What happened in this case?
When the employer asked for the employee's diploma, she kept coming up with excuses. It became clear that she had completed her education but had not obtained a degree. Even the previous work experience listed on her resume was not confirmed. The healthcare company gave her a chance to still provide her diploma and explain the incorrect work experience. When the employee called in sick and failed to hand over the requested documents, the company decided to fire her with immediate effect.
Judge upholds instant dismissal
The subdistrict court in Rotterdam ruled that the employee had deliberately lied about her diploma and work experience, even though these were essential prerequisites for the position at the healthcare institution. Because trust in her had been violated and the deceit directly affected her working relationship, the immediate dismissal was deemed justified. In addition, the employee was required to pay the employer's litigation costs.
Conclusion: the consequences of lying during job applications
It is critical to be honest about your experience and qualifications during job applications. Lying can lead to loss of trust, dismissal, and in some cases legal consequences. Employers expect transparency, especially if the position has specific requirements. Therefore, it is advisable to always present your work experience and qualifications correctly and honestly to avoid unnecessary risks.
This blog was written by Mr. Stijn Blom, employment lawyer at Arbeidsadvocaat.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and assists entrepreneurs daily with a wide range of employment-related matters. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight contracts and policies – with his practical and personal approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to know more?Visit Stijn's page.
Arbeidsadvocaat.nl is happy to think with you if you have questions about summary dismissal. Please feel free to contact us .
April 2025
