The rise of the digital age has seen consumers evolve into investigators as they extensively research each product that they choose to purchase. Recruiters mirror this practice when interviewing candidates and it is not uncommon that they check an individual’s social channels before they read a resume.
Many interviewees will admit that they tell a few white lies on their application or perhaps ‘exaggerate the truth’. However, it is wise to remember that not only can recruiters uncover the truth through their own methods of research, but their experience will ensure that common fabrications will soon become apparent.
In this article, we have worked with the experts at finance.co.uk who gave us the 8 most common lies that interviewers will spot on a candidate’s application.
Time after time
Jobseekers often like to present themselves as a person with a wealth of knowledge and experience. It is not uncommon for people to add 6 months or so to their time within a company however, this can soon be revealed as a lie as dates will soon dis-align with your age and/or timings that you left education.
Senior Executive
Everyone likes a fancy job title or one that sounds senior. However, although an intern or junior may feel like they are working every role within the company, do not exaggerate your job title. It will soon become transparent within the interview process when the interviewer asks for details of your involvement within a senior role, your experience in leading teams and your interaction with stake holders.
I am practically a millionaire
Adding a nifty 10K to your salary may seem like a fool proof way to bag yourself a substantial pay rise however, this is arguably the easiest lie to uncover. Once you have landed the role and passed over your P45 your previous salary will literally be in black and white.
My hobbies include…
The pursuit of a new role can mean that one wishes to present themselves as a cultured and well-read individual. Candidates can do this by listing their interests and hobbies. Amplifying your interest in certain subject matters can be a recipe for disaster. You do not know your interviewers or potential future colleagues’ backgrounds. Therefore, they could experts within your chosen hobby. Unless you have a genuine interest in the topic stated, not exaggerate your interest.
References upon request
Only include the details of colleagues that you have worked alongside and that you have made direct contact with. This does not include your best friend, mother, neighbour or partner. A quick Google search of a name will soon reveal the referees’ identity and who they are in relation to you. If the job was in the bag before, this can lose the opportunity for you.
I led a team of thousands
There is a fine art to leading a team. It takes time to perfect the art of communication and learn the workings of hierarchy within the workplace. A common question within the interview process can be ‘how many people report to you’. There is no shame in the answer being ‘nobody’ if you have solid experience, a natural talent and a true grasp of the industry. Trying to lead a team with no prior experience in the industry is practically impossible and your lack of experience will soon come to light in your new role.
I speak fluent French
Believe it or not, making the false claim that you speak another language is a common lie that interview candidates tell potential new employers. Although it may not seem a big deal as it is not a part of the role, it is a lie that can easily come back to haunt you. A sudden work trip or even a new employee who IS fluent in the said language can mean that you are left red faced.
I am an Excel wizard
Exaggerating your computer skills may seem like no big deal however, they are something that people take years to get their head around. Here, honesty is the best policy. There are more formulas in Excel then you think and the last thing you need to do on your first day is try and get your head around a V Look Up.
