TANDEM’S TIPS: RESUMES AND HONESTY
Kent R.
Over the next several weeks, I’ll be responding to frequently asked questions that have not been addressed here on the blog recently. Q: I am two courses away from my undergraduate degree. My friends keep telling me it’s no big deal to just say that I have the degree on my resume. What do you think?
A: A lot of people give this advice, and I find it mind-boggling. If I had a quarter for everyone who was “just a class or two” away from a degree, I’d be a millionaire. Many companies will check the educational credentials that you provide on your resume. It’s one of the easiest things to confirm, as it’s very straightforward (unlike, say, a reference check which can be significantly more subjective).
Sure, you can get away with being dishonest, but at what price? There’s no reason to live in fear each and every day you show up for work. What if you are eventually competing for a promotion and the topic comes up? What if the company is creating a bio on your background and experience? Save yourself the heartburn, and don’t lie about a degree on your resume. Focus on what you can offer, rather than on what you can’t. I know, I know – most people are really bad at that.
Oh, and you’ll sleep better at night!