Two-thirds of CVs contain lies — report

A survey has claimed that two thirds of CVs received by employers contain lies or exaggerations.

Further findings show 44% of employers expect to hire new staff this year because of growth in the economy.

The survey by CPL Job Market Monitor also revealed 40% of women candidates are willing to accept lower pay than men for the same job, and that 80% of employers decide on a candidate’s viability for a job within five minutes of meeting them.

Given the competition for some jobs, it is perhaps no surprise that CVs become embellished — and the CPL survey findings illustrate why it might not be a good idea.

It found 65% of employers had discovered a candidate had falsified their experience on their applications.

“Falsifying experience on a CV may seem like a great idea to get a role,” said the report. “However, it can have serious implications on professional careers.

“From our survey, respondents outlined some humorous stories around false information in terms of: Role responsibilities, academic achievements, family members undertaking interviews pretending to be the candidate, and falsifying relationship with employers.”

Peter Cosgrove, director of CPL, said: “Some candidates do not understand that lying about their skills and experience is not a good idea. Landing a job you cannot do results in a highly stressful situation which will only end badly.

“Candidates also fail to research their lies, underestimating the intelligence and experience of their interviewers.”