The first step of the hiring process is finding a suitable candidate, which can be a very tedious and time consuming task. Don’t let all of this time get the best of you, keep your eyes peeled for misleading or false resumes. Between multiple studies it has been said that anywhere from 30-53 percent of resumes are misleading or exaggerate the skills listed by candidates. Don’t be fooled by all of these resumes. Be cautious and aware when reviewing resumes.
First and for most, use your common sense. If you read a resume that says that the individual graduated high school in 2003 but they have 4 years of experience in customer service you should be leery. This would mean that the child someone began working at the age of 14, which is unlikely.
Key word association is a large part of hiring based on resumes. However, everyone knows of this little trick now, and it isn’t difficult to get your hands on a key words list for whatever job you’re applying for. If your company uses this type of resume search be sure to follow up with those interested in the position and ask what type of training they had to acquire the skills, at which job they used the skills, etc. Be specific and detailed while asking questions to avoid vague answers.
Use your access to an application in your advantage. Often there are similar questions on an application that might be answered on a resume. Be sure that both the application and resume having matching responses. Another key part of an application is that they usually ask about criminal records, something that will be accessed with signing the application. If this part if either left blank or answered with being convicted your inner gut may tell you that they are a bad candidate. On top of this it is very important that you call references to be sure the previous job information is not only true, but that the applicants were not terrible employees. The more steps you take, the less likely you are to make a mistake.
And lastly is the interview process. Use this to your advantage also. You want to use this interview to test the truth behind what has been filled out on the resume and application while also learning more about the person’s behavior, attitude and motivation.
Avoid interviewees that speak poorly of their previous employer, do not keep eye contact. If you are concerned that the applicant has falsified information on their resume clarify the information with them.
Hiring an applicant that has lied on his or her resume can result in tremendous damage for the company. You can avoid making a poor decision like this by becoming a human lie detector. Don’t let the paper deceive you, and use your common sense when dealing with those looking for a job.
