Why Faking Your CV Is a Bad Idea

How NOT to write a CV – lie, fake and embellish – as Stephen Wilce is sure to agree. The New Zealand former-chief defence scientist quit following allegations of a falsified CV, including outlandish claims which he was unable to prove.

Wilce was head of the Defence Technology Agency, a high security position, which he apparently achieved due to a CV full of impressive qualifications and experiences, including service in the British Marines, a stint as an Olympic bobsledder, designing guidance systems for nuclear missiles, and an employment history at MI5 and MI6.

After investigations of “employment, security and credibility issues” turned up no correlation between his claims and the truth, Wilce resigned. Concerns were raised as to how such a person – described by previous co-workers as ‘Walter Mitty’ (a fictional character created by author James Thurber, who is immersed in a fantasy world) – could have passed the vetting and security procedures required to reach his position in the security division.

Obviously, this is an extreme case, but lying and embellishment about details on CVs is all too common – and a big mistake in all instances. There is a difference in finding a way to best describe and promote your qualifications and skills, and barefaced lies!

The most common ‘fibs’ on resumes and CVs are:

Fake degrees, or claiming a degree not earned: Diplomas can be purchased from the internet, for man, woman, child and dog! Needless to say, these do not count as qualifications… Similarly, employers can trace claims back to the schools and universities listed on your CV, and if you are not on their records, you are not doing yourself any favours by pretending you are.

Over-inflated job titles: Don’t be tempted to ‘promote’ yourself to a role higher than the one you actually filled – or being liberal with the truth over your duties.

Criminal record: Never leave off a criminal record – finding that you’ve lied about such a thing looks far worse than putting the fact on your application, and you could lose your job for the dishonesty. Use your application or interview as an opportunity to prove that you have learned from your past experiences in a positive way.

Dates of employment/unemployment: A gap in your CV may look worrying to you, but never amend dates to fill it. If you took a gap year or went traveling, apply those experiences to skills you will require in the role you are applying for; if you were unemployed, it’s OK to say so – it’s a harsh job climate out there! Just make sure you focus on the time you were employed, and what you achieved and learned while doing so.

Now you know what NOT to do, you can find more advice on how to write a CV, a cover letter, creating a Video CV and even a personal career website to make sure that your CV is the best that you can make it!