Don’t assume they won’t fact-check your information.

When you’ve been facing rejection after rejection in your job search, it may seem like everyone else has a secret ingredient that you’re missing. So, what exactly sets you apart as unqualified compared to the numerous other resumes a hiring manager is sifting through? There’s no single answer to that, but one thing is for sure: lying is not the solution.

It’s common advice to highlight your key strengths when crafting a resume. It’s perfectly fine to showcase your positive attributes that align with the job you’re seeking. However, there’s a clear distinction between accentuating your strengths and inventing them completely. A resume filled with falsehoods is not only easily debunked but is also a surefire way to eliminate your chances of advancing in the hiring process.

When a hiring manager receives a seemingly impressive resume, they don’t just take it at face value. They will dig into your work history and verify your credentials. If everything checks out, fantastic. But if they catch a blatant lie, your resume is likely headed for the trash, and any chance of further consideration will evaporate.

According to a study by TopResume, 97% of recruiters stated that encountering inaccuracies on a resume would make them reconsider the candidate. Of the various types of lies, respondents highlighted falsifying academic achievements as the most serious offense. Unfortunately, this is a common deception found on resumes.

Remember, even if you manage to land a position based on false information, your colleagues will soon realize that you lack the required skills. Any job acquired through fake credentials won’t stand the test of time, that’s for sure.