Should I be telling my employer

[divinefaith]

I’m currently negotiating an agreement with my employer about changing my work role within the organisation. There have been some problems in terms of my capabilities but this is being spoken about and hopefully resolved.
My issue is that my conduct at the workplace hasnt always been right. On particular occassions I have been disrespectful and acted unprofessionally. I resolved not to act like this again but I feel guilty. If my employer had known of my past behaviour it is possible I wouldnt be able to get a better position in the organisation.

My concern is whether or not I am morally required to either let my employer know of those past incidents or if I should give up my oppunity for than new role. Won’t I be cheating or dishonest if I went along without owning up?

 

[1ke]

No.

 

[runningdude]

I’m currently negotiating an agreement with my employer about changing my work role within the organisation. There have been some problems in terms of my capabilities but this is being spoken about and hopefully resolved.
My issue is that my conduct at the workplace hasnt always been right. On particular occassions I have been disrespectful and acted unprofessionally. I resolved not to act like this again but I feel guilty. If my employer had known of my past behaviour it is possible I wouldnt be able to get a better position in the organisation.

My concern is whether or not I am morally required to either let my employer know of those past incidents or if I should give up my oppunity for than new role. Won’t I be cheating or dishonest if I went along without owning up?

You shouldn’t lie, but this is not information that needs to be volunteered.

It would be up to your boss/prospective employer to check your references to determine if your past behavior is an issue. You should be prepared to respond , if asked, that you are committed acting professionally, and be able to offer concrete steps you taken to do so.

 

[Luna_Lovecraft]

My concern is whether or not I am morally required to either let my employer know of those past incidents or if I should give up my oppunity for than new role. Won’t I be cheating or dishonest if I went along without owning up?

No, you are under no compunction to volunteer past misdeeds to your employer; however, if they should come to light you cannot deny them.

Luna

 

[GratefulFred]

We are imperfect and all of us have made mistakes. THE question is whether we have learned from those mistakes and are resolved to do better in the future.

Resolve is more than a mere “I hope I do better.” Think about how you would handle similar situations better if they arise again. Be prepared to say that IF you are asked.

If questioned, don’t try to defend past bad performance. "I have not always performed at the expected levels, but I have learned, and am growing professionally. In spite of some past weaknesses I have also accomplished . . . " They may ask for specific things you would do better. Be prepared to answer.

Lots of ways to say it. The idea is to convince them that you are now on a positive track.

And remember, a man’s word is his bond. Back up what you promise with future positive performance.

 

[PeterGStanley]

No you don’t need to volunteer the information.

But , I will point out if you have not dealt with the previous issues on a personal level such as trying to understand why you had such behavior , seeking professional help , or discussing it with a trusted friend or your pastor.Being sorry won’t be enough the behavior needs to be dealt with. - it will come out again and you will be exposed .

 

[divinefaith]

Thank you!
I do believe I need to commit to making the changes if I want to be a moralled worker that’s something I’ll need to work on and be cautious in how I might be behaving.

For those of you who are suggesting I dont deny/lie about it do you mean I should bring it up when I need to have meetings about my future work positions, considering they will be getting more information from my supervisor.

 

[fbl9]

Thank you!
I do believe I need to commit to making the changes if I want to be a moralled worker that’s something I’ll need to work on and be cautious in how I might be behaving.

For those of you who are suggesting I dont deny/lie about it do you mean I should bring it up when I need to have meetings about my future work positions, considering they will be getting more information from my supervisor.

if you are asked about theses things. say the boss said i heard you did this/that then you need to respond truthfully

 

[runningdude]

if you are asked about theses things. say the boss said i heard you did this/that then you need to respond truthfully

Yes, as fbl9 said, you shouldn’t lie if asked about specific behavior issues. For instance, if you new employer did reference check, and asked your previous employer about your behavior, you new employer may ask you about the behavior described by your past employer during an interview. If asked, you shouldn’t lie, or make excuses. You should state that you made mistakes, have learned from them, and are willing to do better. If possible, you should offer an example of how you’ve improved.

Again, don’t lie or make excuses, but focus on the future during your job interviews. Your behavior will concern the employer, but lies and excuses will turn him or her off altogether. Honestly addressing your future employers concerns, when directly asked, is your best policy.

No need to volunteer your bad history, though!