Spotting Fake Resumes: How Do You Really Know If a Candidate Is Genuine?

Hi, I would like to know how one can determine if a resume/candidate is real or fake. Many candidates enhance their resumes so effectively that they appear highly desirable. However, I am interested in understanding the methods to identify a fake CV. Are there any specific techniques to uncover this?

First of all, I would like to say that we should not look at the candidate in a suspicious way just by examining his resume. The details entered could be true, and as far as I know, there isn't any tool to identify whether it's fake or real. Hence, during the initial rounds, we have to trust the candidate. Later, if the details he has provided turn out to be false during the reference check, we can address it then.

During the first screening interview, what questions should be asked to find out if he really works with that company? I have recently faced this problem and need assistance in understanding it.

I would like to know what the different levels of interviews are conducted because in our company, in the initial rounds, we check the candidates' communication, attitude towards work, and confidence. Once the candidate passes these rounds, they will proceed to the technical round. Following that, there will be another round with the Ops manager/VP or any higher-level personnel from the project or department where the candidate will be placed. Additionally, you can also opt for a written aptitude test in communication or technical skills to assess the candidate's capabilities in the initial round.

To add on to that, we cannot be sure until we do a reference check with the previous employee. If you know about the process, then he can be grilled down in the technical round. But until you do a reference check, you cannot be 100% sure if that person has worked for that company.

Today, companies do a lot of background verification for the same purpose. Everything from education to previous employment is being verified. Normally, this work is outsourced.

Hi Sayali,

Normally in the HR round, we can accurately determine if the resume is fake. You need to probe his current/last employers and ask questions like:
- How long were you with this company? (Ensure dates match those on the CV)
- How large was the project/sales/HR team? (Dependent on the position)
- What is the name of your reporting manager?
- Where is the company located?

Typically, when probing to this extent, bluffers will stumble. Additionally, you can pretend to know one of the senior management individuals in the company the person is working for/claiming to work for. By assessing his confidence level during this interaction, you can make an educated guess based on his reaction.

For an accurate reference check, you may need to contact his references and verify the information.

Hi,

I agree with Deepa, "For an accurate reference check, you may need to call his references and confirm." In my experience, many BPOs do not provide accurate information because the employee has quit the organization. I have even come across process managers refusing to give the date of leaving.

In such cases, it's best to collect information like a copy of form 16 submitted to the IT department; this will serve as legal proof of employment verification. Or a no-due certificate if the relieving letter is intentionally delayed.

Also, check the designation of the references provided. If the reference details belong to people in very high positions like directors or gazetted officers, they would not lie as they would maintain documentation in the form of attested photocopies. This increases the chances of a genuine candidate not being penalized by previous employers.

Regards,
Rahul Rao

Hi Sayali,

Unfortunately, there is no provision in our country's law or any forum capable of blacklisting someone caught making false claims. The best course of action is to be cautious, try to uncover the truth (as Deepa suggests) through investigation. Essentially, it's a game where the person with higher confidence prevails. I believe you should heed Deepa's advice and maintain confidence during the interview process. However, it's essential to play it safe to avoid losing a genuinely promising employee.

- Latika

Steps to Verify a Candidate's Resume

Call up the candidate and ask a multitude of questions about the details mentioned in the resume. Request genuine certificates and verify telephone numbers on the internet for authenticity. Pose tricky questions that can only be answered if the candidate has actually taken a specific course or job. Additionally, arrange for a meeting with the candidate.

You can perform past employment verification of your candidates prior to hiring them. This will help you confirm their work experience and other details related to employment.

Verified Resources Tool

Verified Resources is one tool that I, being an HR professional, have been using to validate my potential employees' details. In addition to work history, it verifies the last withdrawn salary, status of exit formalities, and notice period. Since the details are verified by candidates' former employers, you can detect if your candidate is lying, even if he or she has included false details in the resume.

Here is where you can learn more about this online tool: www.verifiedresources.com

Thanks,
Meesha