As a career professional, you probably know that you should be honest during the job search process. After all, one “little white lie” can derail your chances of landing a great job, right?
Well, that’s not always the case.
In fact, as one of the leading employment agencies in Tempe, PrideStaff knows there are certain situations in which you should fudge the truth in order to put your best foot forward.
Here’s an example:
You’re searching for a new job because, quite simply, you can’t stand your current boss. He’s mean, disrespectful, takes credit for work he didn’t do, and is clueless when it comes to leading a team. You know it’s time to move on and find a new opportunity.
All that said, when a hiring manager asks you in an interview, “Why are you leaving your current position?,” it’s not a good idea to answer with: “Because I can’t stand my boss.”
Even though that’s the plain and simple truth of the matter, the hiring manager doesn’t know you, your boss or the situation. So if you give a negative answer – like the one above – the hiring manager will likely assume you’re simply failing on the job or have a bad attitude.
Either way, it doesn’t look good for you.
So what should you say instead of bashing your boss? Something like the following:
There wasn’t opportunity for growth. I’ve learned all I can and I’m ready to move forward in my career with a new opportunity.
Another instance where you may consider altering the truth is if your job title does not match what you really do. In other words, if your job title is vague or unique to your company, then reword it so your responsibilities are clear to a hiring manager.
For instance, if your job title is “chief rainmaking officer” and your job is to bring in new clients and make money for your company, then a title like “chief business development officer” is going to be more straightforward.
While the above are examples of when it’s OK to spin the truth, in most job search situations, honesty still is the best policy – especially when it comes to your education, work history and experience. That means no altering your college degrees (or lack of), the dates you worked for a certain company, or the level of experience you have.
It may seem like a good idea at the time – especially if you get the job – but doing so can land you in hot water. If, for instance, you tell a hiring manager you have experience “leading a team,” but really you’ve only ever been a part of the team, guess what you’re going to be expected to do once hired? Lead a team. And if you don’t have the right skills, you will fail on the job. Don’t put yourself in that situation.
Need more help finding a job that puts your skills and abilities to use?
Call PrideStaff. As one of the leading employment agencies in Tempe, we work with top companies in the area and can give you access to rewarding jobs that aren’t always advertised.
Contact PrideStaff today to learn more about how we can help you.
