Lying on Your Resume: Can You? 99% Do

You’ve spent countless years at the company, excelling in your role. You’re highly regarded, destined for another promotion, and held in high esteem by everyone.

However, tomorrow brings an unexpected turn of events: you will be terminated. Surprised? Indeed, you were fired.

The reason behind this unfortunate outcome lies in an untruth, a falsehood that recently came to light. It turns out, you had lied on your resume.

If this tale of caution fails to make you reconsider, read further as we delve into the consequences of lying on your resumes, cover letters, job applications, and interviews.

Can I Lie on My Resume?

Unfortunately, you’ll get exposed lying on your resume.

That 99% statistic mentioned earlier in the title? We lied. It was made up. However—

Based on the latest findings from the CareerBuilder survey, 75% of hiring managers caught a lie on a resume (the remaining 25% apparently skim through resumes—but that’s our thinking.)

Sure, there’s a slim chance you might elude detection by lying on a job application or resume.

It’s plausible that most of us enhance the information we present to potential employers.

Maybe your resume lies were insignificant, or the company doesn’t bother fact-checking, or you depart the company before the truth unravels.

But these are the “best-case scenarios” (for you), and the odds are stacked against you.

Below are several common ways you could be exposed:

• Thorough background checks

• Inconsistencies between your cover letter, resume, and/or job application

• A simple phone call to your previous employer

• Accidentally spilling the truth to your boss

• Accidentally spilling the truth to your colleagues

• Putting the skills you claimed on your resume to the test

• Your university contradicting your graduation or chosen major/minor

• Discrepancies or nonsensical details in dates, fictional job titles, etc.

• A basic Google search uncovers the actual facts
  
  

These represent the typical avenues for discovery, though there are certainly more.

Pro Tip: Honesty is the best policy for your resume!

If you seek a resume that secures you an interview without resorting to lies, explore our resume tips, or our comprehensive guide on how to craft an effective resume.

Is It Ever Justifiable to Lie on a Resume?

“Based on my expertise, I have yet to come across a situation where lying in an interview or resume can be deemed acceptable.”

After consulting numerous career professionals, prevailing sentiments included resounding ‘no,’ never, and indisputable.

If you are aware that a statement is untrue, be it on your resume, cover letter, job application, or during an interview, it is best to omit it.

Expert Advice: Honesty is the key; refrain from lying on your cover letter!

Insights from Experts on Lying on a Resume

To gain valuable insights on the subject of lying in resumes, I consulted a panel of seasoned professionals comprising HR managers, consultants, and recruiters.

Here’s a summary of their opinions.

Leading the discussion is Kathleen Steffey, the founder and chief talent officer of Naviga Recruiting, who takes a firm stance: “There’s no justification for lying. Employers have numerous ways to uncover falsehoods, such as references and background checks. However, I do recommend withholding certain information upfront to prevent discrimination, like the year of graduation.”

She draws an insightful analogy, comparing it to dating: “If you catch someone lying before your first dinner, would you seriously consider them as a potential partner? Unlikely!”

I also sought the perspective of Matthew Burr from Burr Consulting, asking how he handles applicants who deceive him. He responded, “Once I discover a lie, it’s a deal-breaker. I don’t have the time or patience to deal with dishonesty during the hiring process. Whether it’s for entry-level or senior positions, we’re investing in a long-term career. I’ve encountered two instances in HR hiring where candidates lied about their education levels, and in both cases, we opted not to hire them. With proper research, detecting falsehoods is relatively easy.”

Adding to the conversation, Steve Pritchard, an HR Consultant for Ben Sherman, explains, “Discovering a lie raises serious doubts about the candidate’s integrity. It prompts questions about their overall trustworthiness and reliability if they were to join the company. Sufficient doubts can lead interviewers to eliminate the candidate from consideration entirely.”

Among the experts, Osayi Lasisi, a former HR director of a major organization, presented a more lenient perspective. She notes, “When I uncover a lie on a resume or during an interview, I evaluate the gravity of the falsehood and its potential impact on the job. While it does raise concerns about the candidate’s trustworthiness, it may also reflect their desperation or eagerness for the position. I carefully consider the circumstances and observe their performance during the probation period before making a decision.”

Pro Tip: Honesty is the best policy during interviews!

If you’re concerned about impressing interviewers without resorting to falsehoods, fret not! Our comprehensive guide on the best interview tips provides genuine advice to help you excel in your meetings.

Consequences of Lying in Job Applications

The repercussions of being caught in a lie on your job application are few, but they carry considerable shame and pose challenges for your professional prospects.

Typically, the immediate consequence is termination or rejection from the position you sought.

However, if your deceit remains undiscovered until after you’ve been employed for a while, the outcome is even more disheartening.

Getting fired not only disappoints your employer but also alienates your friends and colleagues, potentially leading to personal repercussions.

Is it Illegal to Lie on a Resume?

Technically, lying on a resume, cover letter, or job application is not illegal. Since these documents are not considered legal records, prosecution for falsehoods is usually not pursued.

Nevertheless, if you fabricate supporting documents to validate educational credentials, for instance, you may find yourself in legal trouble.

It is essential to bear in mind that different jurisdictions have varying laws. For example, according to Texas Penal Code §32.52, claiming or utilizing a non-existent or fraudulently obtained postsecondary degree is considered an offense, among other actions.

The ONLY Time You Should Lie on a Resume

Here is how to lie on your resume and get away with it:

Expert Advice: Don’t lie on a resume unless you’re a cat!

The Remarkable Truth about Lying in Interviews

It’s crucial to be aware that if an employer poses illegal interview inquiries, such as those about your weight or religion, you have the freedom to provide false answers without fear of retaliation.

These questions breach your civil rights, and while you technically have the option to lie on your resume, it’s advisable to address the issue or divert the conversation instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Lie on My Resume?

It is not recommended to lie on your resume as it can lead to negative consequences such as termination or damage to your professional reputation.

2. I Lied on My Resume and Got The Job. What Next?

It is important to rectify the situation by being honest with your employer, as continued deception can result in severe consequences and damage your career prospects.

3. Should I Lie on My Resume?

No, honesty is key when creating a resume. Employers value integrity, and lying can have serious repercussions, including job loss or difficulties in future job searches.

4. Can I Lie About My GPA on My Resume?

It is not advisable to lie about your GPA on your resume. Employers may verify this information, and dishonesty can lead to negative consequences for your career.

5. I Lied on My Resume Background Check. What Next?

Being dishonest on a resume background check is risky and unethical. It is best to address any inaccuracies upfront, as discovery of lies can result in job loss and tarnish your professional reputation.

Final Thoughts

I tend to use over 1000 words to convey a straightforward message, yet this instance surpasses them all.

Here’s the summary:

• Do not lie on resumes.
• Do not lie on cover letters.
• Do not lie on job applications.
• Never lie during interviews.
  
  

And by adequately preparing yourself, there will be no need for deception!

Do you have any inquiries about lying on a resume? Unsure about navigating interviews without resorting to a minor lie? Feel free to reach out in the comments section below, and we’ll address your concerns.

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