Is it unethical to understate your résumé?

Is it ethically wrong to have several résumés? For instance, is it OK to 'understate' a résumé in order to not appear 'too qualified'?

I have had more than 20 years' experience in my field but was recently made redundant and have been unable to secure a permanent job since then. Consequently, I decided to take any job I could get, since I became bored just staying at home.

Hence I applied for a temporary position which I got. The fact is, however, that I omitted some parts of my résumé because I didn't want to be considered 'overqualified'.

'Enlightening'

I must say it has been an 'enlightening' experience so far. A few people have even talked 'down' to me! It was demoralising at first the way I was treated. Ironically, what I was earning from this job was what I would have got for just one allowance in my previous job. However, I didn't allow how I was treated to adversely affect my attitude to work or how I responded to the individuals.

They were impressed with my attitude and have expressed an interest in me working there on a permanent basis, although I'm doubtful if I would continue in this particular job permanently.

While working here, I've seen other jobs I would be interested in however, fear holds me back. I am also concerned that if I applied for any of these positions and had to submit my complete résumé, I would be considered dishonest. Would they think I had misled them?

- Reader

Dear Reader

Let me commend you on two things. First, it is a mark of your humility, adaptability and resilience that you decided to take a job below your qualification, in light of your failure to find your ideal job. Many people would consider it beneath them and let pride stand in the way of being resourceful, realistic and practical.

Second, your response to your co-workers' condescension is admirable. Many people would either react with anger, demand that they be respected, or just work with a bitter spirit.

In response to your question, yes, it is likely that you would be considered dishonest even if you had not explicitly altered the facts but only left out some of your qualifications and work experience.

Generally, in the interest of transparency and integrity, it is safer to include all relevant qualifications on one's résumé. You should then emphasise the relevant practical skills and expe-rience that you have for the job in the Key Skills section of your résumé. You can discreetly mention your 'excess' qualifications in the Education section.

Let me say though that many employers will understand why you didn't disclose all your qualifications and won't hold it against you. So it might be worth a try to apply for an available position that better utilises your current qualification and experience. It's a risk, but since you don't plan to remain in that job anyway, you don't have much to lose, and your ideal job to gain.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and personal achievement strategist. He can be reached at: glenfordsmith@yahoo.com.

glenfordsmith@yahoo.com