Arrest record?

Would an arrest record potentially deter employers from hiring you? If the outcome was dismissed, do future employers overlook the arrest if it comes up in a background check? Also what areas of employment would it be hard to be successful in with an arrest record or does being arrested disqualify you from any jobs (federal or anything)?

arrest is for shoplifting.

Generally not. Jobs in law enforcement, law school applications, and other higher level professions frequently do ask whether or not you've ever been arrested (not charged, arrested) and ask for a explanation.

An arrest for shoplifting isn't that big of a deal unless you are applying to work in a store. Just like a drug store isn't going to hire a dope dealer. Just be up front and honest if you are asked about it.

Shoplifting and the charges dismissed?

Make sure it's expunged.
Stealing looks bad, even if it is insinuated.
Worry about it now and get rid of it.
Carry a letter with you and be prepared. Some applications want you to put it down, even if it is dismissed, just to test your honesty. They like to say, ha haa I gotcha.
You don't want to work for those people anyway. and as far as the government. They are more forgiving. If you admit it, the law kinda enforces them not to discriminate in your financial and economical demise.

if it is a kiss the customer's *** kind of a job then forget it, if I were you I would go for a total different kind of employment

was it a hit single, or is it a full CD recording. I mean one single, heck no wories. But if your have more....., get in alot of stuff kind of a thug, well.......
Then it depends, if its weed busts, no worries your Boss will prob makes buds ( inside joke ) with you.
If it's violence, well then maybe he has foes who need broken legs, or a partner that needs set right... Lots of options.
And never forget sex.... Yup if you have a sex crime..... Yup bet you can get a job fast, yup.
Tell em your good to go.
If your ugly, tell em you'll call their wife ( if yur a lady ) or hubby if your a man, and rat em for having kinky sex with you. You will get the job, infact, prob anyone you want. You could do alot with sex in a workplace.