Should I lie on my CV?

The quick answer is no, you should never lie.

Not only will this compromise your character, but you could also put yourself in a position to not pass the probationary period of your new job if discovered.

HOWEVER do not be afraid to upskill, stretch, or ‘sell’ yourself, here’s how-

UPSKILL

There are two sections you need to look out for on job descriptions, essential skills and desirable skills. This needs to be where you focus your time on upskilling!

Does the job require you to have good knowledge, experience or qualifications?

Good knowledge can be as easy as watching online tutorials. Learning information that will get you through an interview and if you get the job, you can spend your time before you start upskilling as much as possible.

 Experience or qualifications should not put you off applying. Instead what online courses can you enrol in? What can you complete before your interview? If not, nothing says you are committed to this role more than confirmation you are in the process of obtaining the desired qualification.

STRETCH

Most people apply for new jobs because they want to ‘move up’ the ladder or experience new challenges. Very rarely do people take a backward step, so the stretch comes in the promotion or career change you are reaching for.

This is where you may be tempted to lie about your experience to obtain an interview or talk yourself out of applying for a job because the stretch feels too big.

Instead of focusing on the gap between where you are right now and where you want to be, imagine you are already there!

 Imagine your application was successful. Depending on the type of job you are applying start dreaming.

What kind of (insert here job title) do you want to be?

If you are applying for a role with line management responsibilities, what kind of management qualities do you want to model? What healthy team culture do you wish to cultivate?

This kind of mindset shift changes your language for the interview stage and shows you are up for the task, not daunted by it.

Don’t talk yourself out of applying for something that feels like a stretch or be tempted to lie about your level of experience to get it.

Instead, assume you will be successful when writing your CV and cover letter. Your confidence and excitement will come across in your tone of voice on the page.

SELL YOURSELF Remember no lying!

Do not make up a completely fictional person on paper. This is about selling YOURSELF!

I guarantee already you aren’t selling yourself enough.

This is one of the biggest areas you can change on your CV or cover letter but you may not be sure where to start.

I often need examples when I’m stuck. Below are eight examples of common experiences and next to them in bold I have translated them into strengths/experiences you could include in your CV.

Ever worked from home/remotely and got the job done – self-starter, excellent at personal time management and prioritisation of workload. Able to deliver on deadlines without supervision.

Lead and/or organise a volunteer team (think about what you may be doing for a charity/church) trusted member of the team at xxxxx with leadership experience and people management.

Ever had a good idea that was put into practice? Innovative thinker.

Ever failed at something but picked yourself up? Resilient and determined.

Ever struggled with making a decision because it affected others but not you? people focused

Spent time investing in someone? Mentor

Shared your knowledge and expertise? Generous with my time and experience

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of work drama, or gossip and walked away? Here’s a line for your personal statement “I take personal integrity and loyalty to management seriously. When faced with difficult or challenging work environments I use this opportunity to model a culture and behaviour I would wish to implement if employed to the position of..”

There are so many life experiences that can be turned into strengths you can be including those that will sell who you truly are more than any fake experience, qualifications or skills could ever!

Cheering you on as you put this into practice.

Written By- Marie Aitken