Why It’s So Important to Have an Accurate Resume

When putting together a resume and filling out job applications, candidates naturally want to make the best impression they can in the limited space available. If you are in the process of creating that stellar resume and you haven’t already done so, take a look at our resume writing tips. However, one thing you must keep on the forefront of your mind throughout this process is the accuracy of the information you include. The employer who reviews your resume will most likely complete thorough reference checks and background verification before making any hiring decision, so it is absolutely crucial that there be no false information on either your resume or application. Here are some facts that every candidate should know about the importance of an accurate resume.

Work History

More and more companies are utilizing candidates’ resumes and applications as legal binding documents. Every bit of information written is considered to be the person’s statement of truth about their work history. This includes dates of previous employment, duties and functions in those positions, job titles, etc. The companies will frequently contact the former employers to verify specifics about what the candidate has stated. Anything and everything on the resume and application must be both accurate and consistent, or else the candidate risks being declined for the position immediately. Even high level senior management personnel are under the same level of scrutiny and have, in fact, been dismissed for inaccurate data they presented about themselves.

Education History

Just as critical as an accurate work history is an accurate education history. Never misrepresent the level of education that you have currently achieved at the point in time when you submit the resume for consideration! For example, if you are scheduled to graduate with your Bachelor’s degree in May and are applying for a position in February, you cannot write down on your resume that you have a Bachelor’s degree. The proper thing to do would be to specify when you are scheduled to earn the degree and how many hours you have already completed towards it. It is also extremely unwise to claim current enrollment in a school when you are not, as the employer will probably contact the institution to verify your enrollment status. For candidates who have already earned certain degrees or certifications, we highly recommend keeping an official copy of your transcripts, diplomas, and licenses that can be submitted to the employer upon request. If they so choose, it will save them a lot of time and energy by not having to wait on the registrar’s office at the school to fulfill their request, particularly if the registrar’s office has difficulty locating it.

As unbelievable as it sounds, the truth is that about 1/3 of all resumes submitted contain at least one item that is incorrect. This epidemic of inaccuracy is costing many people the opportunity for a good job. An employer who can’t trust the candidates to be honest about themselves won’t risk the chance of their dishonesty with the responsibilities and resources that they would be given with the company. Check and double check what you have represented as fact about yourself before submitting your resume or job application, because it would be such a shame to lose a great opportunity over such seemingly small details. If you have any further questions or need advice on how to best present yourself on paper, take a look at our tips on writing a good resume or feel free to contact us directly.