ASK THE HEADHUNTER

Dear Headhunter,

When I was a junior in college, I was arrested for an open container while at a party. Now that I have graduated, I am in the hunt for a job but a little concerned about this charge. Do I include it on my resume or bring it up during the interview?

This is a great question and fortunately everyone makes mistakes. Most companies don't hold dumb mistakes against you. Take into consideration the type of charge with any arrest. If the charges were dropped and it doesn't show on your record, then you have nothing to worry about. If it resulted in a misdemeanor or felony and it appears on your record, then you will want to talk about it down the line.

Problems with past arrests typically only occur when you misread the interview question or lie about it when asked during the application process. Non-disclosure of a circumstance can raise some serious red flags. Companies that deal with clients, finances or other personal items want to know that they can trust you. Like I said, most companies don't hold dumb mistakes against candidates. Just don't lie about it.


The bottom line is you do not have to put charges on your resume or cover letter. The purpose of those documents is to showcase why you should be interviewed, not create biased opinions that would eliminate you as a candidate. If asked when filling out the initial application or during the interview, be completely honest and explain the circumstances that surround it.

Tom Johnston is the headhunter that headhunters seek to find talent for their firms. He is the CEO of SearchPath and has more than 18 years of experience in franchising, search and recruitment, and office development. Tom is recognized as a leader and authority in the executive search industry.