By: Jaleah Taylor, Ethics and Policy Intern
Searching for jobs and internships is already hard enough, but doing so in today’s market makes it extremely challenging. In May 2024, the U.S. (United States). Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that approximately six million Americans were unemployed [1]. While recruiting platforms like LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter have strategically focused on increasing employment opportunities, the job market has become increasingly competitive. Most entry-level jobs now expect candidates to have prior experience in the field despite being labeled as entry-level positions.
What would you do to get a job that you are 100% qualified for? What about one you are only 75% qualified for? Would you boost your resume to get an edge? Do you even consider embellishing your qualifications? If so, what justifications do you make?
Why Do People Lie on Resumes?
The pressure to stand out in a crowded job market can be overwhelming. When faced with stiff competition and high expectations, it may seem that embellishing qualifications or inventing experiences could provide a much-needed edge. A 2023 survey by ResumeLab revealed that 70% of job applicants have lied or would consider lying on their resumes [2]. Common lies include inflating job titles, falsifying degrees, and exaggerating skills.
Several factors drive this behavior. For example, the intense competition for limited positions pushes candidates to find any viable way to gain an advantage; many entry-level positions demand experience that recent entry level applicants simply do not have; and candidates may feel that everyone else is lying, so they must do the same to stay competitive.
The Risks Involved
While the temptation to lie might be strong, the risks are significant. Employers are becoming increasingly thorough at verifying the information provided by candidates. Background checks, reference calls, social media scrutiny, and AI-powered resume scanners are standard parts of the hiring process. Being caught in a lie can result in immediate disqualification from the hiring process, damage to one’s professional reputation, and potential legal consequences.
For instance, in the popular TV show Suits, the character Mike Ross lands a prestigious job at a top law firm by lying about having a Harvard Law degree [3]. While his story makes for compelling television, such deception would lead to severe repercussions. Just like Mike Ross’s deception eventually catches up with him, in real life, being caught in a lie on your resume can lead to serious repercussions, including job termination and reputational damage.
A real-world example of this is the case of David Tovar, the former chief spokesperson for Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Tovar resigned after it was discovered that he had falsely claimed to have earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware in 1996 [4]. This lie, which had gone undetected for almost two decades, became known during a due-diligence screening for a promotion to senior vice president. Despite his years of service and experience, Tovar’s deception cost him his job and significantly tarnished his professional reputation. This example, much like the plot in Suits, underscores how resume fraud can lead to profound consequences, even many years after the falsehoods are initially told.
Ethical Considerations
Lying on a resume raises serious ethical questions. It violates principles of honesty and integrity that are foundational to personal and professional conduct. Not all lies are created equal, and this matters significantly when evaluating their ethical implications. Lying about having a specific degree from a prestigious university is different from overstating one’s proficiency in Spanish or Microsoft Excel. The severity and context of the lie influence its ethical weight. For instance, fabricating a degree could directly influence hiring decisions and compensation, whereas exaggerating a skill might only lead to on-the-job learning gaps. Employers should consider the magnitude and intent behind the lie when assessing its ethical and professional impact .
Creating a More Equitable Process
Employers have a critical role to play in reducing the compulsion to lie on resumes by making the hiring process more equitable and supportive of entry-level candidates. Companies should reevaluate job requirements to reflect realistic expectations and necessary skills without excessive experience demands. By adjusting these requirements to match the actual needs of the role, companies can attract candidates who are genuinely suited for the position, reducing the pressure on them to exaggerate their qualifications.
David Tovar’s case is a prime example of someone who was successful in his role without holding the formal degree he claimed to have. His professional accomplishments at Wal-Mart and other companies demonstrate that the lack of a degree did not impede his ability to perform effectively. This highlights the need for employers to reconsider rigid degree requirements that may overlook talented individuals capable of excelling in their roles. President Joe Biden has also highlighted the importance of non-college jobs, noting that new factories offer thousands of jobs paying $130,000 a year without requiring a college degree. This sentiment is echoed by several state governors, including Pennsylvania’s Josh Shapiro and Utah’s Spencer Cox, who have eliminated degree requirements for many state jobs. These moves are part of a broader recognition that the requirement for a college degree in many jobs has been an unnecessary barrier, locking out a significant portion of the workforce.
Providing robust onboarding and training programs can bridge the gap between a candidate’s current skill set and the competencies required for the job. Employers should recognize that entry-level applicants may lack extensive professional experience but often possess the work ethic and tenacity needed to succeed. Offering internships or apprenticeship programs can also provide hands-on experience, allowing candidates to gain relevant skills and prove their potential. By fostering a culture of honesty and integrity, valuing a candidate’s willingness to learn, and investing in comprehensive training and mentorship, companies can create a more supportive and equitable hiring environment for .
Navigating the Job Market Ethically
In such a competitive environment, finding ways to stand out without compromising one’s integrity is crucial. Investing time in acquiring new skills relevant to your desired field through online courses, certifications, and workshops can help bridge the experience gap. Building professional relationships can lead to job opportunities that might not be advertised publicly, and networking can also provide valuable references and endorsements. Gaining experience through internships, even unpaid ones, and volunteering can enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Customizing your resume and cover letter for each job application by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences is also beneficial. Most importantly, being truthful about your qualifications and experiences, and emphasizing your willingness to learn and adapt, can set you apart in a positive way.
Conclusion
Lying on a resume might seem like a quick fix in a tough job market, but the long-term risks and ethical implications make it a precarious choice. Employers have the power to shape a fairer job market by valuing honesty and potential over exaggerated qualifications. By focusing on genuine skill development and ethical job-seeking practices, candidates can navigate the job market more effectively and build careers based on honesty and integrity.
References
- The employment situation – May 2024. (n.d.). https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf
- Szczepanek, A. (2023, October 3). The truth about lying to get a job [2023 data]. ResumeLab. https://resumelab.com/career-advice/lying-to-get-a-job
- Moore, M. (2023, August 28). How did Mike Ross keep his secret for so long on suits?. ScreenRant. https://screenrant.com/suits-show-mike-ross-not-qualified-lawyer-secret/
- (n.d.). Bloomberg.com. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-09-15/wal-mart-spokesman-said-to-resign-over-falsehood-in-his-resume?alcmpid
- Cohen, R. M. (2023, March 19). Stop requiring college degrees for jobs that don’t need them. Vox. https://www.vox.com/policy/23628627/degree-inflation-college-bacheors-stars-labor-worker-paper-ceiling
- Charleston, S. (2018, September 6). Job seekers, if you’re lying on your resume, you will get caught! https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/job-seekers-youre-lying-your-resume-you-get-caught-thomas/
- McCormick, C., & Dumaraog, A. (2024, January 4). Suits: Does Mike Ross become a real lawyer (& how?). ScreenRant. https://screenrant.com/suits-mike-ross-real-lawyer-how/