Research finds lying on résumés is common; know how to spot trouble

Finding that perfect résumé is every employer’s dream. But research shows the risks they face if they’re too quick to assume candidates really are what they seem to be. Recently, career advice website ResumeLab surveyed U.S.-based workers to examine job applicant behavior. The survey turned up alarming numbers of people who frequently lie on résumés, proving that the hiring process is no time for employers to don rose-colored glasses.

Dishonesty abounds

In August, ResumeLab surveyed over 1,900 U.S. workers and found seven in 10 confessed they have lied on their résumés, with 37% admitting they frequently lie. A third admitted lying once or twice, and 15% said they haven’t lied but they have considered lying. Just 15% said they haven’t lied or considered lying.

The survey results show that highly educated applicants reported the highest incidences of lying on résumés. Of the applicants with master’s or doctoral degrees, 58% said they frequently lie, and 27% said they have lied once or twice.

The survey found 29% of participants without a college degree said they frequently lie, and 42% said they have lied once or twice. Survey respondents with a bachelor's degree or associate's degree were found least likely to lie, with 30% saying they frequently lie, and 33% saying they have lied once or twice.