The Dangers of Misrepresenting Your Skills

One of the gravest errors I made while transitioning into the tech field was misrepresenting my abilities.

I dedicated a few hours to learning React, which led me to believe I was sufficiently skilled to include it on my CV, despite not being able to create a website using the framework. I quickly realized that this approach was a colossal waste of time. Here’s why: Misleading potential employers on your CV can lead to three unfavorable outcomes, each resulting in wasted time.

You should anticipate being questioned about every technology you claim to know on your CV.

Here are some possible scenarios that could unfold if you choose to be dishonest:

Scenario 1 — The employer discovers the truth during the interview

In this case, you’ll face rejection, wasting both your time and the employer’s. Continuing to embellish your CV will only lead to further interview rejections. Ultimately, the only person you deceive is yourself.

Scenario 2 — You persuade the interviewer of your skills, but your lack of experience becomes apparent once you start the job

This situation can heighten your feelings of imposter syndrome. You'll find yourself in a position where your team sees through your facade, which can damage morale and may result in your termination for being untruthful during the interview. Misrepresentation creates unrealistic expectations.

Scenario 3 — You manage to convince the interviewer, who is unaware of what they should be looking for

This is perhaps the most detrimental scenario, as it often leads you to an unsuitable job. The role might not involve programming at all, or you could be expected to handle all technical responsibilities without the requisite skills.

The Consequences of Dishonesty

Here’s why being truthful is essential for your career trajectory:

Being dishonest may increase your interview opportunities, but honesty will connect you with the right job interviews.

By being upfront about your skills, you can eliminate employers who aren’t a good match for you. For instance, an employer looking for a C# developer won’t hire someone without any experience in that language. Clarifying your skill set from the outset prevents you from investing time in interviews that will ultimately lead to rejection.

Employers who are interested in your candidacy will create training plans to address your weaknesses.

If you acknowledge your lack of experience with databases, for example, the employer can arrange training to help you build your skills in that area. Without this honesty, your shortcomings may go unaddressed, which could jeopardize your future success.