AllMightyVoice,

You should absolutely send a letter contesting the results of the "failed" polygraph. To do otherwise could be considered a tacit admission to "being deceptive."

It is not in your best interest to have a written report by a polygraph operator accusing you of deception as the last thing in your personnel file. 

At the very least, you should send a certified letter contesting the polygraph results. In a situation like this, less is more. Simply state that you answered the questions truthfully and that you contest the results of the "test."

You also may wish to consider requesting a "re-test." Just keep in mind that in many places, second polygraph examinations are nothing more than a sham to create the illusion of fairness in the hiring process. The outcome is very often pre-ordained. 

Long story short, I took a polygraph as part of my pre-employment background screening for a position with a state government agency and failed.  I did absolutely no research into the polygraph beforehand, as I knew I had nothing to hide and thought for sure I would pass with flying colors.  Hindsight of course now telling me that was a bad decision.  

The polygraph itself consisted of seven questions, six of them relevant.  Have I ever stolen anything over $100?  Did I lie about anything on my job application?  Am I taking this position with any ulterior motives in mind?  Have I ever habitually used or sold any type of drugs?  Honestly I don't remember all of the questions, but they were all along those lines.  I was able to very truthfully answer NO to all of them.  The test was repeated three times.  When the test was over the polygrapher got up and referenced the job I would have (as if it was a done deal), shook my hand, and I left.  Two weeks later I learned that I failed.  I was told that some deception was detected during the test.

The rest of my background should have been pristine.  Tax check, credit check, criminal check....all should be golden.  All of my past supervisors said that they gave me glowing reviews.  I'm no angel, but I certainly have never done anything that should have barred me from employment.  The failed polygraph is all that came between me and a brand new career.  Is there anything that anyone can recommend I do as a follow up?  Would it be worth sending an official letter?  If so, what are some points I should make in that letter.  What about legal counsel?  I'm sure that the multitude of forms I signed most likely release them from all responsibility, but still.  

I botched the pre-polygraph prep, I want to at least make sure I'm not missing anything I can do post-polygraph that could help change something.  Wishful thinking I'm sure, but I'm not quite at the acceptance stage yet.  I'm angry and frustrated that this test called me a liar, when in fact I had nothing to hide.  Thanks!