Healthcare candidates 'lying on CVs'

Jobseekers applying for healthcare jobs are continuing to give inaccurate information about any past criminal convictions they may have, a survey has revealed.

Figures released by BackCheck show that 20 per cent of respondents are continuing to lie about any violent crime history, theft, fraud, driving offences or drug offences they possess.

It was also found that between September 2008 and March 2009, 50 per cent gave false references on their CV, Personnel Today reports.

Chris Hawkins, assistant vice president of operations at BackCheck, said: In recession, more than ever, employers have their pick of candidates, they want impressive CVs, and the sensible employers are checking that what is on the CV is true.

Lies on a CV kill a career, says a spokesperson for ClickAJob.

The worst is that it demonstrates you have a fraudulent or untruthful streak in your personality, he points out. You're tainted as unemployable.

You may not be found out immediately, but it's amazing how high you can climb the promotions ladder before your whole world come crashing down, he continues.

And there is no doubt you will be discovered - with recruiting decision-makers increasingly being held more accountable - and CVs being cross-checked across databases, it is only a matter of time.

Since lying cannot work, try changing the odds another way, just like sales people do. If it takes 200 contacts before you get a hit, then that is how many times you have to apply, he exhorts.

Be persistent - if you can show determination, everyone will want to hire you.

Earlier this month, a survey conducted by Ochre House revealed that many bosses are offering pay rises in a bid to win the war on talent.