Leaving a job: dismissal, resignation or mutual agreement
Is it OK to say I resigned when I was actually fired?
No. Saying you resigned when you were dismissed is a false statement, and it often comes out through references, background checks or simple conversation within an industry. If it does, the lie usually causes more harm than the dismissal ever would.
What to do instead:
- On your resume, list the job normally; no reason is needed.
- On forms, give a short, honest reason.
- In interviews, explain briefly what happened, what you learned and why you are a good fit now.
If the situation is unclear, for example you were given the choice to resign before a dismissal, describe it accurately. Example: "I was told the role wasn't working out and chose to resign." Many employers will hire someone who was fired and is honest about it; far fewer will keep someone they discover has lied.
Reviewed · by the ResumeBuilder.ae editorial team
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General guidance for job seekers, not legal or immigration advice. Employers and applicant tracking systems differ, so always follow the instructions in the job advert. Spotted a mistake? Email support@jobb.ae.
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