RCSA warn of misleading candidate CVs

Although a CV isn't a legal document – it is still an imperative part of the recruitment process that needs to be correct.

On an everyday basis, recruitment experts have make a judgement of their suitability for a role based just on a CV and references. As candidates become desperate in their attempt to find employment, they can slip deliberate errors and lies into their CV.

In light of this, the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association (RCSA) is warning businesses and recruitment agencies to be aware of the techniques and tricks aimed to deceive. Robert van Stokrom, RCSA president, believes there is no winner with a false CV.

"Put simply it works in no one's favour for an applicant to falsify their CV or job application," he said.

"With today's digital age an outcome such as this is simply staggering. Employers should expect due diligence prior to even contacting the applicant."

While misleading your potential employer is not a new trick, technology progressions such as social media and online records mean it is harder for employers to fall victim. Tools such as advanced recruitment software have also eliminated some of the techniques that people use to get employment.

By streamlining CV information and references, recruiters can complete checks efficiently and in a timely manner.

Sinead Hourigan, RCSA Board Member, explained the recruitment process must be rigorous and be designed to reference check all relevant information such as qualifications and five years' worth of previous work.

"A primary role for any recruiter is to confirm a candidate the client has chosen is actually who they say they are, and has done all the fantastic things they say they have," she said.

"In this way recruiters and employers avoid being fed particular references and are in a position to choose the references that are of greatest relevance to the employer and the manager who is making the hiring decision."