The UK Careers Fair logo
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
HomeAbout2025 ScheduleEventsNewsJobsLondon
Exhibit With UsBook A Stand
Contact Us
CV Advice
5 min read

Telling Lies In Your CV - Would You Be Tempted?

Everyone tells lies every now and again, it is part of human nature. The so-called ‘white lies’ seem to cause less of a conscience for people because they do not usually cause harm to anyone. However, in the often fiercely competitive jobs market, some candidates may feel that telling a lie or two about their qualifications or experiences on their CV may get them to be considered for a job that they would otherwise be overlooked for.
Written by
Joanna Clare
Content Manager
Published on
November 7, 2023

Everyone tells lies every now and again, it is part of human nature. The so-called ‘white lies’ seem to cause less of a conscience for people because they do not usually cause harm to anyone. However, in the often fiercely competitive jobs market, some candidates may feel that telling a lie or two about their qualifications or experiences on their CV may get them to be considered for a job that they would otherwise be overlooked for.

If you are applying for a job where you know there is significant competition, it may feel necessary to bend the truth by stating you have certain qualifications when in fact, you do not. However, by deciding to fabricate what you may or may not have qualifications in can damage your professional and personal reputation, as well as that of the company and can have quite devastating repercussions and consequences.

To appear more capable of fulfilling a certain role, some candidates may be tempted to exaggerate their accomplishments within past job responsibilities. While it may seem that you are likely to impress the interviewers at the time, the risk of being exposed during reference checks, or even if given a role and it is discovered that you do not possess the necessary attributes for the job, can have serious consequences.

Often a lack of experience can lead individuals to include a few ‘extras’ to make their work history appear interesting. However, you must understand that employers make thorough background checks, and often will contact previous employers to verify certain information. If it is found that you have been blatantly lying about your experiences then it will shatter your chances of employment and it will prove very difficult to regain trust. Due to professional networking which is on a global scale, many employers within similar industries will already be  acquainted with one another so in that respect, it is not wise to tell any untruth regarding experience or otherwise as you will undoubtedly be caught out sooner or later.

Telling lies on a CV poses significant risks for all involved. The consequences of being less than honest can result in immediate dismissal and if you may have caused or contributed towards a damaged reputation of a company, you could face severe and prolonged legal action.

Every employer is looking for honesty and integrity which are the values and ethos of most. To gain respect, employers will admire a candidate who demonstrates transparency and authenticity which shows above all else that they can be trusted and relied upon. Building a career based on trust and ethical morals can lead to long term success and opportunities for professional growth due to your excellent and unblemished reputation. Word travels fast within industries and so does reputation.

So, while the temptation to lie may seem at first, rather trivial, the consequences far outweigh any illusions you may have of benefitting yourself. In your job searches and interviews, arm yourself with honesty, integrity and ethical standards. By emphasising your genuine qualifications and transferable skills, you will allow your true personality to shine through. This will increase your chances of finding the right opportunities in the right environments and of building  a successful and professional career which is built upon a solid foundation of mutual trust.

Weekly newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter to keep updated with the latest insights for the freshest trends and know-how in the career realm.
By submitting, you are agreeing to receive our weekly newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time if you no longer wish to receive these updates.
Read about our privacy policy.
Thank you! You're now subscribed to the latest news from The UK Careers Fair.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Latest News

Dive into our latest insights for the freshest trends and know-how in the career realm, updated daily.
Press

Limited Availability for February 2025 – Book Now!

The UK Careers Fair
|
Editorial Team
December 16, 2024
5 min read
Seasonal

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year And A Relaxing Time In Between!

Joanna Clare
|
Content Manager
December 25, 2024
5 min read
Seasonal

How Self Care Can Be The Best Present You Can Give Yourself This Christmas

Joanna Clare
|
Content Manager
December 20, 2024
5 min read

Upcoming Events

Check out our full and comprehensive list of upcoming events.

Manchester Careers Fair
February 5, 2025
Milton Keynes Careers Fair
February 5, 2025
Liverpool Careers Fair
February 7, 2025
 TAKE ME THERE