A survey conducted in August 2023 by Resume Lab delved into the behaviors of over 1,900 U.S.-based workers in the context of job applications, providing revealing insights into the prevalence of lying on a résumé and the motivations behind the risky practice.
In the fiercely competitive world of job-seeking, the temptation to embellish a résumé may arise, and while some people do stretch the truth, lying on a résumé can have dire consequences, tarnishing one’s professional reputation and jeopardizing future career prospects. The lies may eventually come back to haunt you.
Lying on Résumés
The survey revealed that 70% of respondents admitted to having lied on their résumés, with 37% confessing to frequent dishonesty. Surprisingly, only 15% consistently committed to being truthful about their job history.
The survey also identified a curious trend among applicants with advanced degrees, with 85% of individuals holding master’s or doctoral degrees frequently or occasionally resorting to résumé falsehoods, compared to 71% of participants without a college degree and 63% of those with bachelor’s or associate degrees.
Lies Know No Bounds
The dishonest practice appeared to transcend demographic differences, affecting individuals regardless of gender, age, political affiliation, religion, or work industry.
Fiction on Cover Letters and During Interviews
The temptation to bend the truth doesn’t stop at résumés; it extends to cover letters and job interviews. An overwhelming 76% of respondents acknowledged lying on their cover letters, with 50% engaging in this deception frequently. Additionally, 80% admitted to bending the truth during job interviews, with 44% confessing to frequent dishonesty.
A correlation emerged between higher educational attainment and an increased likelihood of résumé fabrications. As for lies during job interviews, the impact of a college diploma and honesty appeared negligible.
The Perils of Deception
While some might argue that deception can offer an advantage during recruitment, the potential costs are substantial. The consequences of lying on a résumé encompass rejected job applications, missed opportunities, and damaged reputations, particularly among employers within the same industry. Getting caught in a lie can also lead to legal action, including hefty fines and, in extreme cases, imprisonment.
The Path to Success Without Deception
The message is clear: honesty should always guide job applications and interviews. Minor exaggerations can result in immediate or long-term consequences. Instead of resorting to falsehoods about their employment history or qualifications, job seekers can highlight related experiences and transferable skills while remaining candid about their abilities.