The reason for the background checks and information sifting is to eliminate the possibility of any fraudulent activity. You should never attempt to lie or fabricate information on your resume - because one way or the other, either personally or via a background check, the information will be looked into.

Security Concerns

Most organizations are very careful about the kind of people they employ. Security is a serious concern, especially when it comes to confidential data - intellectual property and confidential data that can influence the bottom line operations. Indulging in documenting incorrect information on your resume will only result in severe embarrassment and loss of credibility in the job market.

A background check is always conducted before the final offer is made, to filter the candidates who have a reputation of not being credible or truthful.

Background Verifications

Professionals on interview panels are trained to quickly identify loopholes and candidates who seek jobs based on fake experience certificates and 'padded' resumes. These days, the trend of using the services of special third party security companies for conducting background checks is on the rise. Background verifications usually cover quite a substantial part of your working life.

Your previous employers will personally confirm the duration of your employment, position held and your last compensation. There have been many cases where employees were asked to suddenly leave on the confirmation of fraudulent information on their resumes.

Most employers validate information that is mentioned on your resume, including information about past employers, education qualifications, personal references stated and their contact numbers.

Generally, third party verification agencies employed to double-check information provided insist on getting an approval for the activity from the candidates prior to doing the verifications.

The Credibility Check

Many employers include a third party check to establish credibility to the verification process and to ensure that it is free of bias. A recruiter may be prejudiced or hard pressed for time and may not be able to carry out the necessary checks. Verification agencies get back to the management with credible information, and thus help to reduce hiring risks to business and security.

In fact, there has been a significant reduction in the number of fake resumes containing incorrect information.

If you are applying for an overseas position, you especially avoid lying, because background checks are carried out equally or with even more importance when companies consider hiring overseas employees.

Online Records

There are many potential employers who have also begun to check out personal blogs and profiles of applicants. Always keep your online records clean and in place to work towards building a clear professional reputation. Avoid having putting your personal views on controversial subjects (such as politics) online.

In general, lying or exaggerating on your resume is a bad idea. If uncovered, it will have done nothing but to soil your reputation.