5 Signs An Applicant Is Faking Their Credentials

A lot of companies turn to outsourcing to streamline their operations, access a broader talent pool, and save on operational costs.

After all, you’d be amazed at the vast range of talent you can find online and offshore.

You can even hire a virtual assistant with a range of expertise, from content writing and marketing to managing personal tasks in your personal life.

How cool is that? 

However, not everyone in the outsourcing industry is quite as forthcoming about what they can do.

Some applicants may “fake it until they make it” to secure the job by exaggerating or fabricating their credentials.

Here are 5 signs that your applicant might be faking their credentials – so that you’re better equipped to choose the right one, no matter what position you’re hiring for.

 

Inconsistencies in Education and Work History

Look out for dates of employment or education that overlap. 

Take the following example (which is completely fictional, btw): 

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, University of Example: September 2017 – May 2020
• Master of Business Administration, University of Sample: September 2018 – May 2020

Here, the applicant says they finished both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree at the same time, which is unlikely because a bachelor’s degree is generally a prerequisite to enroll in a master’s program.

Moreover, some may write down their work history like this:

• Full-Time Virtual Assistant at Tech Solutions: January 2021 – Present
• Full-Time Virtual Assistant at Marketing Pros: March 2021 – Present

A virtual assistant can handle multiple clients, but it’s highly unlikely to claim a full-time position for both; part-time roles would be more understandable.

Plus, while it’s not impossible for someone to work more than one full-time job simultaneously, it might affect the quality of their output.

You can probe further into this during the interview in case you’re curious about their time management skills.

 

Unverifiable or Dubious Companies or Educational Institutions

When you can’t verify the existence of the companies or schools listed on someone’s resume, it raises doubts about the applicant’s trustworthiness. 

If you can’t find the company or school online or if there are no contact details provided, the applicant might be faking it.

 

Incorrect Contact Information for References 

If you can’t reach the references (due to incorrect or unverifiable information), it should raise more doubts about the applicant’s credentials.

Double-check the details and try reaching out via social media and professional networking sites. 

If you still can’t verify the references, consider it a red flag and proceed with caution.

 

Credentials are Too Good to Be True

Sometimes, you see exceptionally impressive or flawless credentials from an applicant. 

This might be extensive and rapid career advancement experience, prestigious awards, and certifications.

Why should these get alarm bells ringing? These days, it’s all too easy to fake such things.

To verify, you can ask the applicant to provide supporting documentation like degree certificates, transcripts, or award certificates. 

You can also put their skills to the test during the interview. 

 

Evasive or Overly Defensive When Questioned About Their Background

When candidates are evasive or defensive about their background, it suggests they may be hiding something – especially if their story doesn’t add up

If this happens during the interview, politely ask for more details, and delve deeper with follow-up questions or reference checks.

If the candidate keeps avoiding questions, it could be a sign they’re not being honest or might not be right for the job.

Ultimately, trust your gut and focus on candidates who are honest and open during interviews.

With the tips above, you can screen your applicants better to find the best remote worker for you.

However, if you’d prefer not to sort through many applicants, Remote Staff takes care of the tedious process of pre-qualifying candidates, so that all you need to do is select the right one from a shortlist.

Click here to schedule a callback to find your remote staff today!