4 Common Lies People Tell in Job Interviews

Summary: When you are asked questions that you are not comfortable answering in a job interview, politely decline to answer instead of making something up.

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When would it be a good idea to lie? Never! So why would anyone think it was a good idea to lie during an interview? Unfortunately, there are people out there that think they can lie and get away with it. News flash! Lies always catch up with you eventually. Don't get yourself in over your head before even starting a new job. Here are four things you should never lie about during an interview:



 

1. Where you live

If you use an address on your resume or application that is not where you currently pay rent or refer to as your primary residence then explain that in your interview instead of lying. If you live in another city than the job is located, specify that you are willing to relocate. When they know the truth, they won't expect you to be able to make several interviews with little warning and will save you lots of money from booking last minute airplane tickets.
 

2. Your current or most recent salary

You do not have to say what your salary is during an interview by politely stating that you do not believe it has any relevance. If you do tell them your salary, do not lie and say that it is way higher than it actually is. Some employers will ask for a copy of your W2. Feel free to state what your expectation is based on the average salary for the position in the area.
 

3. Your GPA

If a position has a minimum GPA requirement, assume they will want verification of your GPA with a transcript or form from your school.
 

4. Getting fired

Being laid-off is not a bad thing to have happen. When the economy suffered a few years back, a lot of people had to add being laid-off to their work history. Whether you were fired, laid off, or quit, do not complain about the company or previous managers. Keep your interview positive and professional.

See the following articles for more information:

• 10 Things You Shouldn't Do at a Job Interview
• The Do's and Don'ts of a Job Interview
• 21 Major Job Interview Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• How to Impress Your Employer During an Interview
• Less Common Interview Mistakes
• How to Answer the "Tell Me about Yourself" Interview Question
• Interview Mistakes That Can Cost You the Job Offer

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