“Lie to get jobs” — that’s the trending career advice on TikTok’s #CareerTok, a valuable resource for the youngest working generation to share advice and tips for success in the workplace.
Studies reveal that 70% of Gen Z use the platform to aid in making career decisions, and young professionals are now advising their peers to lie on their resumé to land jobs.
According to Amanda Augustine, a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) at career.io, TikTok Gen Z “influencers” are increasingly encouraging resume dishonesty.
Augustine gives examples of how it’s happening, such as using AI for fake photos and providing inaccurate information in a job application.
In April, career-services platform career.io conducted a survey that showed almost half of Gen Zer’s lie in their job applications.
1,000 applicants were asked, “Have you ever lied or exaggerated?” and 47% of Gen Z respondents admitted to lying on a job application to land a job.
The survey’s results (Gen Z respondents)
Work experience – 24.1%
Job title – 17.6%
Responsibilities – 29%
Education, certifications, or courses – 11.4%
Skills (technical, professional, or soft) – 23.5%
Achievements – 10%
References – 5.3%
No, I have never exaggerated or lied (Exclusive answer) – 52.9%
The analysis showed Generation Z candidates experience more stress during job applications, and a lack of preparation is the reason they lied.
Interestingly, while Gen Z is the most likely generation to exaggerate in job applications, each older generation is less likely to lie on their resumes. It turned out, 38.5% of millennials have previously lied to get a job, compared to 20.4% of Generation X and just 9.4% of Baby Boomers.
Why do people lie in their resumes?
According to Amanda Augustine, a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC), the data reveals just how many job seekers believe that if they can get through the initial resume screening and land an interview, they’ll have a real shot at impressing the hiring manager. She explains, “That belief often leads some candidates to stretch the truth on their resumes. But even small exaggerations can come back to bite you.”
Augustine notes that whether it’s inflating a job title, extending employment dates, or claiming skills a person doesn’t fully possess, these fibs can quickly unravel during interviews, reference checks, or background screenings. She adds that while someone might be able to fly under the radar for a little while, being caught in a lie, even after being hired, can damage their professional reputation and ultimately cost them the job.
“If you’re worried that your experience isn’t a perfect fit for a position, focus on reframing your information rather than falsifying it,” Augustine continued. “As an example, she recommends reformatting resume dates to show only the years, or highlighting any professional development, freelance work, or volunteer roles taken on during employment gaps. These strategies can help you tell a more compelling — and truthful.”
