Over and over HR experts have warned job seekers to desist from using lies so as to be shortlisted for various job roles. But Steve Mwendwa * decided that this was the only way to escape unemployment. This is his story.
Why I Lied On My CV About My University
“I have long heard that lying on your CV is probably the most dangerous thing you could do to your career but sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures. I therefore decided to ignore that advice and lied on my CV.
I spotted an advert for a Communications Assistant position. Upon perusing the job description, I concluded that I was the right candidate for the job. 3 years working experience in a busy PR setting. But something dashed my hopes. The advert further read that to be shortlisted, you ought to have graduated from one of the prestigious universities in Kenya whose name I choose to withhold. Apparently the company only hires candidates from that particular university. This is why I thought altering the name of my college would help me get a foot on the door.
Little did I know that this was going to be my worst nightmare. I did not know that I was going to be called for an interview. Initially the company contacted me for a phone interview where I spoke about my qualifications with key players in the department. My interaction with them really made me feel guilty about having had to lie so as to have the job.
Some 2 weeks ago, I received an email informing me that I was on the final stages of being considered for the job. I was then required to complete an application form again which also requires me to fill my educational qualifications
I am more than terrified and don’t want to loose this opportunity. Worse still, I was informed that my former university will be required to fill out some information. I am scared of the background check which will reveal that I am lying on my CV.
So far they have been very impressed with me at the moment. Should I let them know that I was desperate enough and lied on my CV? Do you think that I will go unnoticed? Please help because I am helpless at the moment.”
