Knowing that a resume is the only chance to introduce yourself to an employer adds a little bit of responsibility when submitting a job application. That is why job seekers need to make sure their resume and accompanying documents will generate an interest of hiring authorities. However, by far not all people are confident that their professional experience and qualifications will impress an employer. From there people have several options: some hope to be lucky and get selected anyway, others optimize their documents to be a perfect match for the position. There is a third group who think they could make themselves look better in the eyes of employees by lying about their experience, credentials, and skills. About 50% of applicants either lied on their resume or thought about lying in order to improve their chances of getting hired. In this article, we will talk about the lies on the resume and how it can help you along the way.
Is It Worth Lying on a Resume?
Lets set things straight from the beginning. By lying we mean any kind of exaggeration of truth as well as a blatant lie that has nothing to do with the reality. The advantage if a lie doesn't get noticed is obvious - you will look a stronger candidate and probably have more chances on getting the applying position. But there is a big 'if' since the hiring managers are people who can tell whether a candidate was lying or not. If they have a doubt one question during an interview is all they need to bring it all to light. And then you can only imagine the embarrassment you will be going through. That is why we are strongly against lying on a resume and other application documents. But not just because employers can easily spot it. There are other reasons why lying isn't worth it when it comes to a job search.
The assumption that you won't get a job if you don't lie is wrong. You don't have to misrepresent facts in order to be considered for the job. Even if you don't possess the exact qualifications required for the job there are many things you could do in a resume and cover letter to address this issue. Even the fact that you are willing to learn looks way better in the eyes of the employer than lying. It is absolutely ok to admit that you don't know everything and you have your own knowledge gaps. Very often honesty in combination with the willingness to learn is way greater than lying in order to get a job. Just put yourself in the place of the hiring manager and you will understand how this is viewed from a different perspective. Most lies that do go through unnoticed are small lies. They might help you get the job but it will have its impact when you are hired. In the long run, you will probably regret that you lied because it will create an additional headache sooner or later. Big lies, like made-up accomplishments, jobs, employment dates can cost you more than just this job. It will damage your reputation, especially if the company would want to make sure you won't work in the companies they have relationships with.
