Q: I was transferred to a facility where I had difficulty “fitting in.” Then I was terminated for sexual harassment. I did not say or do the things I was accused of. The attorney I consulted said that I could pursue the issue, but it would take a long time. Now I face the interview process. It scares me to death because that is not the type of person I am. (I’m a former Marine and a family man.) When asked about my last employment, I inform the interviewer that I was terminated due to allegations of harassment. They then ask what kind of harassment, and I answer “sexual.” I never get a return call. – Alex

Dale: We’re willing to presume that you were innocent, Alex, but not all human-resources departments are willing to do likewise. Think of this: If you’re running a company, would you rather be accused of overreacting to a sexual-harassment complaint, or of ignoring it?

J.T.: As for moving on, please remember you are not a convicted criminal. That means you have no “duty to disclose” the specifics around your termination.

Dale: If they had fired you for some other mistaken accusation – say they thought you were using illegal drugs – would you bring that up in future interviews? Only if you thought the interviewer would find out. However, know that most companies won’t say why an employee was let go.

J.T.: Get someone to call your former employer for a reference check to learn just what the company says about you. Next, find someone at the old company who will give you a great recommendation. Then, practice for interviews. I went for advice to a workplace lawyer, Beth Brascugli Hirsch, from HRM Consulting Inc. She said: “When discussing why you left your last job in future interviews, you should keep your response truthful but simple.” I suggest saying something like this: “My last job wasn’t the best fit for my professional style, but I’m a determined person who doesn’t like to shrink from difficult situations. My company eventually decided it just wasn’t working and let me go; however, I truly think it was for the best and am now excited about finding a place where I can really use my experience and skills to their fullest.” Of course, you want to use your own words, but I think this gives you the idea.

Dale: It was a bad fit, and surely that played into the company’s decision. They made a mistake by firing you, and you demonstrate that by moving confidently ahead.