Introduction
An untruth on the resume or during a job interview may seem innocuous, but it can have far-reaching consequences. Even years later, misinformation may prove to be grounds for summary dismissal. This blog explains why honesty during a job application is crucial.
Unfairness in job applications is not without consequences
It is more common than thought: job applicants who sugarcoat their resumes. Sometimes diplomas are made up, work experiences are exaggerated or skills are portrayed that one does not possess. Although this may not have any consequences at first, lying during the application phase can come back rock hard in the end. Even if the lie is not discovered until years later, summary dismissal may be warranted.
Case law example
A telling example comes from a case before the Rotterdam subdistrict court. An employee at a healthcare institution had indicated during her job application that she possessed an MBO diploma. In reality, she had taken the course but had never completed it. When the employer asked her after some time to provide the diploma, the employee kept postponing this with all kinds of excuses. Moreover, it later turned out that her previous work experience also did not fully match what she had stated on her resume.
The employer gave the employee a last chance: still provide the diploma and disclose your work experience. Instead, the employee reported sick and remained in default. This was followed by instant dismissal.
The judge's judgment
The subdistrict court ruled that the employee had deliberately lied about essential parts of her resume. Especially since it concerned a position in health care, in which diplomas and work experience are of great importance, the judge counted heavily against her. The summary dismissal was deemed legally valid. In addition, the employee had to pay the employer's legal costs.
What does this mean for workers?
This example shows that honesty during the job application process is crucial. An untruth can not only lead to the loss of the job, but also have financial consequences, such as paying litigation costs. Employers may set high standards for integrity, especially when positions require specific degrees and skills.
In short: when in doubt about your resume or previous work experience, it is always wiser to be open than to be confronted afterwards with a drastic measure such as instant dismissal.
Conclusion
Lying during the application phase can lead not only to dismissal, but also to financial consequences such as litigation costs. Especially in positions where degrees and experience are essential, employers may set high standards of integrity. Openness remains the safest route to avoid long-term problems.
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 dismissal. Please feel free to contact us .
April 2025
