Accurate and well written resumes are the greatest tool that a candidate can give a recruiter. Resumes give a representation of who you are, what you have done and what you would like to do in the future. Therefore, by fabricating, exaggerating and misrepresenting information on a resume, it raises serious questions about a candidate’s integrity and reliability, which can create critical problems throughout the interview process. Since offers are contingent on background checks, inaccurate information in your dates, education, or work history, can result in the job offer you have worked so hard to get to be revoked at the 11^th hour.   Gainor Staffing’s President and Founder Norma Menkin shares some of her best resume practices to enable candidate’s to maintain an honest representation, even when it comes to the harder to explain aspects of their backgrounds.

1. Honestly explain gaps in your work history and do not extend job dates to cover them up. When company’s check references, the truth will be revealed. Just be honest in representing what you did in between jobs and why you left, to avoid inconsistent information, which will lead companies to be apprehensive about making an offer.
2. Descriptions of your work experience should clarify what you did, not your co-workers. If you were on a team that achieved great results, state your direct contribution to the team. Employers want to know the skills you have used throughout your career so it is important to be transparent in terms of your past successes.
3. Be honest about your education; this is a big one because this is easily traceable data during a background check. If you do not have a degree or certificate yet, you can always put down the credits you’ve received toward getting a degree.

As a candidate, It is natural to want to look as qualified as possible but don’t play with your reputation or job security by being inaccurate on your resume. Instead, be confident in the skills that you have acquired, be willing to grow in the areas that you need help and move forward with the company that values what you offer.