The 8 Most Common Lies You've Probably Been Told By Job Candidates

Job candidates lie. And the sooner you accept that, the sooner you can start spotting the warning signs earlier on in the process.

June 20, 2023

Everybody lies. We've said it before and I'll say it again.

In fact, you would be shocked by some of the lies candidates have told me in the past.

Like, for example:
  • "I'm half French."
  • "I completed a degree in English."
  • "I played a Dementor in Harry Potter."

(I know, right. Candidates really do say the oddest things.)

But, there's a difference between these mega-lies that only really cheeky candidates would use and some of the smaller, more common lies that quite a few of them think are ok to tell.

Let's take a look:

Summary.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this post - everybody lies in interviews. It could be something silly like "I love going to the gym" or it could be something more deceptive, like fabricating an entire degree.

When you accept that this is the case, you can start working towards spotting lies earlier - and learning how to wheedle out the truth.

Recruiter Pro Tip. It can be really frustrating when you find out (too late) that a candidate has lied to you. So if you'd like to learn how to assess body language and spot some of the warning signs, check out these great resources:
Remember - use your instincts - does something not quite feel right? Why not? And if you do catch a job candidate in a lie, be ready with a plan of action!

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Coburg Banks - Multi-Sector Recruitment Agency
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