FEATURE
Lying on Resumes

Think that corporate positions are the only ones that tempt applicants to lie about a degree or work experience? Think again. We all remember what happened with George O'Leary. His bogus master's degree and lies about having played for New Hampshire cost him the coaching position at Notre Dame. He's not the only one. Sandra Baldwin resigned as the president of the Olympic Committee after exposure of her falsified doctoral degree.

These are just two of many individuals in the public eye whose exaggerations cost them their jobs and their dignity. What about the rest of us, those of us who apply for jobs in corporate America? The Liars Index, a survey by Jude M. Werra & Associates, reports that fewer people are telling tall tales on their resumes about their academic credentials. "Over the last several months the national press has given considerable attention to academic misrepresentations by prominent figures in politics, athletics and executive roles" say Wera. "We are tempted to speculate whether that notoriety may have encouraged some people to refrain from puffing their academic credentials." According to the study, 11.19% of all executive job applicants lied on their resumes in the first half of 2002, compared to 16% in 2001 and 18% in 2000. Although the numbers seem to be on the decrease, the statistics are still staggering. Startling evidence shows that it starts early. According to the Dallas Morning News, a study showed that 13% of college students lie on their resumes before even starting their careers.

If you are not currently verifying applicants' employment and education, InfoMart can customize these screening services to suit your hiring needs. A standard education verification provides the applicant's dates of attendance and graduation date, major course of study and degree information. A standard employment verification includes a professional interview of past employers to determine qualities such as leadership ability, reliability, and attitude. Contact InfoMart's sales team or a customer service representative for more information.