Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Truth or consequences
Resist the urge to embellish — or outright lie on resume or during job interview
Being considered a trustworthy person is a noble attribute that centers directly on your integrity. However, it seems that integrity sometimes flies right out the window when it comes to the job-search process.
If you search the internet for statistics you’ll find a range of figures — 48 percent, 81 percent or any number in between — estimating the number of people who embellish their resumes or lie at some point during the interview process.
We don’t have to wonder why a number of employers are skeptical about applicants’ claims, as many job seekers have convinced themselves that a few white lies will help their chances for landing a job.
In fact, you’ll find many articles that tell you how to embellish (basically, to lie) in order to supposedly increase your job-search success.
You may fall into the mindset of “Well, everyone is doing it, so it’s OK for me to stretch the truth as well.”
However, our goal this year is going to be different. Resolve to make honesty one of your greatest attributes.
Nearly every employer keeps an eye out for a person with integrity. When the interviewer perceives you as being a truthful person, you’ll find that you have a competitive advantage that positively differentiates you from many job seekers. Honesty is a commanding position for you to achieve.
To the best of your ability at the moment, always answer honestly, both in conversation with prospective employers and in your written correspondence. Let your moral sense be your guide, and set your conscience level at a high mark.
Getting a job offer because you’ve been honest is a great way to land a job — and not getting an offer because you were honest is an honorable way to miss out on an opportunity. Conversely, getting a job through dishonest means is — well, dishonest.
Discovering a workplace that places a high value on honesty is a refreshing find. The “What do you expect from your employer?” phase of the interview is a great time to bring up honesty. Mention that you believe in providing honest communication and that you expect transparency and truthful responses back from the employer. Such a statement will hep eliminate concerns the hiring manager may have about your intentions.
During the interview, avoid statements that begin with “To be honest with you ….” This kind of comment practically shouts out that what you usually say can’t be trusted.
Let your honest reputation begin during the interview process. Be a person whose word is worthy and an individual in whom others can fully believe. Get the concept of truth across during your interview, and you’ll significantly increase your chances of getting that new position. Happy job hunting — honestly.
— Gary Moore is the president of Insight Edge. He has more than 30 years of business experience and specializes in the Personality Priority hiring process, sales and leadership training. Visit Moore’s website, www.insightedge.com, or send email to garymoore@insightedge.com.