Nearly half of Gen Z job hunters have misrepresented themselves on job applications, according to recent findings that highlight concerns not about today’s talent, but rather the overall hiring environment.
Research indicates resume dishonesty is widespread, with younger workers at the forefront. Career.io reports that among 1,000 full-time surveyed workers, 47% of Gen Z applicants admitted to lying on applications, while fewer than 10% of boomers did the same. FlexJobs indicates one-third of 2,200 surveyed workers have exaggerated details on resumes or cover letters.
Experts argue this issue isn’t a moral lapse but instead a reflection of market desperation.
“As firms adopt AI and automation, entry-level roles have decreased, especially in tech,” says Camilo Izquierdo, digital PR specialist at Career.io. Their research shows a 50% reduction in entry-level hiring at major tech firms post-pandemic, favoring those with experience and pushing recent graduates to embellish resumes to stand out.
The pressure is also cultural. Gen Z, immersed in social media, sees curated success stories everywhere. “Platforms like TikTok and Instagram feature polished content where everyone thrives,” Izquierdo notes. “With influencers promoting embellishment on resumes, it’s not shocking Gen Z may exaggerate their career histories.”
For hiring managers, adopting skills-based hiring aligns with enhanced training and onboarding programs.
The trends indicate where applicants tend to stretch truths. Among dishonest Gen Z workers, 29% amplified responsibilities, and 24% overemphasized experience. FlexJobs noted that 19% faked enthusiasm for company missions, and 10% altered employment dates to hide gaps.
Toni Frana, career expert manager at FlexJobs, believes these embellishments reflect a larger issue. “Workers feel pressured to exaggerate to meet job market demands and employer expectations,” she says. “To avoid being overlooked or to rank higher with ATS, many resort to hyperbole for competitiveness.”
HR leaders are reevaluating their tactics, with Izquierdo supporting skills-based hiring focused on capabilities instead of traditional qualifications. “By highlighting skills and backing them with evidence, job seekers of all ages can adapt,” he advises.
Employers must also invest. “Embracing skills-based hiring means investing in training, ensuring entry-level talent can advance within the company,” Izquierdo adds.
The repercussions of dishonesty are significant. Reference-checking firm Checkster reports 7 in 10 recruiters would dismiss candidates who lied on resumes, even with justification, and more than 3 in 5 would reject those with false references.
However, with 58% of job seekers searching frequently—2 in 5 multiple times daily, according to FlexJobs—and nearly half feeling more pessimistic about job prospects than last year, the urge to exaggerate work history persists. As economic challenges remain and recent graduates face bleak prospects, experts foresee the problem intensifying before it subsides.
“Despite the temptation, dishonesty can lead to negative consequences, as employers will eventually uncover discrepancies,” Frana cautions.
Ultimately, she advises, job seekers should focus on providing an authentic account of their careers, as genuine self-representation remains the best strategy.