By Kevin Donlin

Is it OK to lie on your resume, to handle a job that ended badly?

Mark in Chicago wanted to know.

He writes: "I'm helping my girlfriend find work and we're struggling with her resume. She had a job for three years and was fired. Would it hurt if she did not put this employer on her resume and plugged the hole with a 'self-employed' fabrication instead?"

In a word, yes! It would damage her long-term prospects.

Three more words: Don't do it!

Lying on your resume will do you far more harm than good in the long run. While you may get hired sooner by "padding" your resume with a job you never had or training you never took, you'll never be completely at ease in any new job, knowing that your employer might learn the truth -- and fire you on the spot.

An expert on employment verification offers this short, sharp advice on writing less-than-truthful resumes.

"Bob Smith" (real name withheld) has done numerous background checks and investigations for employers. He says, bluntly, "I have seen many people fired for lying on a resume."

His best advice?

"NEVER lie on your resume, unless you are planning to work at lemonade stand. Many companies use outside investigative firms to do background checks. Also, many regional firms keep up-to-date information about local organizations so they can do quick checks," says Bob.

*Tip* One way to know what former employers are saying about you is to contact a company that can find out. One such company is Documented Reference Check. Learn more at this special link -- http://www.roibot.com/w.cgi?R6682_drc

So, how can you avoid lying on your resume if your last job ended badly?

Certainly, don't include a reason for leaving -- if you were fired, that may come out during a reference check anyway, so why bring it up ahead of time? Instead, focus on the best things you achieved and put the best face on it.

If you were fired from a job and include that job in your resume, be prepared to discuss it. If asked, say: "Things didn't work out, but I've learned a lot from it and I'm a better employee as a result."

To sum up: stick to the truth. It's easier to remember. And it will keep you out of hot water.

Best of luck to you!

-- Kevin Donlin is the author of "The Last Guide to Cover Letter & Resume Writing You'll Ever Need," a do-it-yourself manual that will help you find a job in 30 days ... or your money back. For more information, please visit http://www.CollegeRecruiter.com/guaranteed-resumes.php