Facing a Career Gap: Is Faking Experience the Only Way to Break into Finance?

Hello members, I'm in a typical situation due to my past decisions. My concern is regarding my career gap and the jobs I worked previously. I completed my graduation in 2017, and after that, I pursued individual endeavors where I learned valuable things. Until 2021, I never really worked in any corporate company. During this time, I learned many things, especially about finance. In 2021, I decided to pursue an MBA along with CFA. As of now, I have completed my MBA and attempted my CFA Level 1 last month.

Now, I'm trying to enter the finance industry with my knowledge, but I'm unsure about how to present my previous experiences. I'm considering fabricating about three years of experience to cover that gap. This fake experience would not relate to any finance jobs, being completely irrelevant, just to manage the gap. Please guide me with this decision and share your opinions regarding my situation; it will be helpful for my career. Thank you.

Why not embrace your educational achievements?

Why are you considering a fake experience certificate when you have a credible explanation for the gap? You were pursuing an MBA and are now studying for the CFA, which provides a credible explanation and clearly demonstrates your achievement motivation. You didn't waste time during this period but have been enhancing your capabilities and capacity based on your past experience. This gap will not cast you in a negative light but is actually a positive investment made for a brighter future.

My Suggestion

Don't start your career with fake experience. You have a justifiable reason to address your career gap, and most growing organizations encourage their employees to explore new horizons according to their professional interests and enhance their skills. In my opinion, this will undoubtedly be an add-on.

Best Wishes!