Lessons from a Walmart Executive
By Ashley Mazerolle, Marketing −
The consequences of resume deception.
In today’s competitive job market, the temptation to embellish or exaggerate on a resume can be strong. After all, who would notice a little white lie when the ultimate goal is landing that dream job? However, a cautionary tale emerges from the case of David Tovar, former Vice President for Corporate Communications at Walmart. Tovar’s eight-year tenure came to an abrupt end when it was revealed that he had fabricated his college art degree from the University of Delaware. This incident underscores a critical lesson: the repercussions of resume deception can impact even the most senior members of a company.
The saga of Tovar serves as a stark reminder that no one is immune to the consequences of dishonesty, regardless of their position within an organization. Even if a job is secured and promotions have been earned, the specter of deceit looms large. It emphasizes the importance of integrity not only during the hiring process but throughout one’s entire career.
To safeguard against such misrepresentations, many large corporations employ pre-employment screening services to conduct thorough background checks on prospective employees. These checks can unearth any discrepancies between an applicant’s claims and their actual background. Traci Canning, the managing director of First Advantage in Europe and the Middle East, emphasizes the value of honesty in job applications. She asserts that the truth will inevitably surface during the screening process, advocating for transparency from the outset.
Research by First Advantage highlights four common areas where job seekers tend to deceive potential employers:
1. Education and grades
2. Professional qualifications and organization memberships
3. Work experience and role
4.Unemployment periods (gaps between jobs)
Armed with this knowledge, organizations can take proactive steps to combat deception. Establishing a robust screening process that includes thorough verification of claims can act as a deterrent against resume lies. Even a simple face-to-face interview, where direct questions are posed, can help identify potential falsehoods. For positions of greater significance, advanced methods of lie detection can be explored.
In conclusion, the cautionary tale of David Tovar underscores the long-reaching implications of dishonesty on a resume. Regardless of the allure, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Both job seekers and organizations stand to gain from a commitment to honesty and transparency, creating a more trustworthy and accountable job market for all.
Photo by /Caique Morais
