Theft From Workplace

[SARGE]

I'm going over job applications and there's always a section on Theft. It asks if one has ever taken anything and what items. I suspect that many folks have indeed taken things, whether it be a pen, paper, tools, etc. I've advised folks to answer the questions truthfully but am met with "then they won't hire me". I advise that many companies use a Polygraph as part of the hiring process and the truth could come out anyway. I believe a recruiter would rather know you're honest and still hire you versus one who lies on an application.

Opinions?

[doctorgonzo]

I think that the point of that question is to weed out people who take large items, or maybe embezzled $100,000 from their last employer. If somebody stole something of value, and then the employer filed a police report, any prospective employers are going to find that out in their background check. If, on the other hand, a person took a pen home one day, I really don't think that would be considered "theft" and I wouldn't put it on an application.

I've never had to take a lie detector test for any job I have had, even with the police department, so I don't know how often this can be verified in that way.

So if somebody has stolen something large and a criminal background check or a talk with a previous employer would make that clear, I think you would have to put that on an application. If somebody just took some paper or something small, then it would probably be best to leave it off.

[EzyStvy]

"They truth will set you free." Course you might go hungry

Polygraph tests....Worked for a company back in the 80's that used these in pre-employment. They are too easy to beat by under exagerating the truth...

[bailey]

personaly I would not even fill out that type of application, I feel that if the employer has to ask that type of question, then that tells me that they will not take me for my word, and will not trust me at all, and I will not work for any company that feels that way about its emploies.

there was one time in my life that I was asked if I would be willing to take a lie detector test for pre-employment and I felt a lack of trust for that company and ended the interview at that point and walked out.

[SARGE]

Originally Posted by bailey personaly I would not even fill out that type of application, I feel that if the employer has to ask that type of question, then that tells me that they will not take me for my word, and will not trust me at all, and I will not work for any company that feels that way about its emploies.

bailey, as you know there are companies who deal with sensitive issues and many answer to the public. One in particular is the local Sheriff's Dept.

[bailey]

I thought we were talking about companys, not public service or goverment agencys. that would make a big differance.

I was refering to manufacturing and retaile stores type of busness

[mairving]

Still funny. I worked at a company awhile back that used the theft thing on a preemployment test. One girl answered to truthfully something like this:

1. Have you ever Stolen from your employer? Yes


2. Have you ever Stolen anything over $1000? Yes


3. Have you ever lied to your employer? Yes


4. Why should we hire you? Because I am an honest, hard-working person.

[SARGE]

mairving, that's a hoot! I like items 3-4