Monster poll indicates UK workforce is a nation of liars

04/06/2007 09:51:00

A recent survey by Monster.co.uk, showed that as much as 67% of the British workforce regularly lie during job applications. However, as the use of social networking websites proliferates, it seems that employers and recruiters alike are now armed with an effective method of curbing this trend.

Despite the current employment market favouring the jobseeker, the number of high calibre candidates remains limited. Potential applicants still appear inclined to embellish the truth about their work history, qualifications, professional experience, and especially the reasons for leaving their previous employment.

A Monster Meter poll recently asked, "What question are you most likely to lie about in an interview?" 3,842 respondents voted:

39% (1519 votes) – Reasons for leaving a job
33% (1226) – None – I don’t lie
18% (699) – Current salary
10% (398) – Qualifications

“The fact that you can now email referees, check details in search engines, view company profiles and genuine education details makes everything more transparent,” said Rob Brouwer, CEO Monster UK and Ireland. “Prospective employers are now making detailed reference checks and recognise the potential damage of hiring someone without the skills or experience they claim to have. Jobseekers should understand that they can damage their long term future with one lie.”

Encouragingly 33% of candidates declared that they chose not to lie.

www.monster.co.uk

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