Employers say some LinkedIn profiles aren’t worth the screen space
With over 4 million Australian members and counting, LinkedIn is rapidly cementing its position as a force to be reckoned in the business arena. Frequently used by companies to identify and make contact with the best talent, it has become a trusted source for suitable candidates and their experience. Or has it?
A recent survey conducted by recruitment marketing firm, Employment Office, found 82% of employers believe candidates lie about or exaggerate their skills and experience on their LinkedIn profiles.
The survey also revealed 67% of employers believe job titles and responsibilities in previous roles are the most untrustworthy pieces of information, followed by periods of unemployment (15%) and education and qualifications (12%).
Employment Office Managing Director Tudor Marsden-Huggins says that while LinkedIn is a great online networking tool, when it comes to recruitment, an organised and proven vetting process is still very important.
“LinkedIn is a great way for professionals to connect with their industry peers and colleagues. However, when it comes to recruitment, it is vital for employers to safeguard their business by utilising a robust recruitment platform including thorough reference checks and testing procedures to separate the wheat from the chaff,” he said.
LinkedIn is one of Australia’s most popular professional online networking sites, with more than 500 recruitment companies using LinkedIn as a source of talent.
“People are less likely to provide false information on easily verified facts such as employment history and educational qualifications. However, it can be very easy to get away with exaggerating their skills and responsibilities in previous roles. Many candidates believe employers don’t have the time to verify every detail of their previous employment, and unfortunately, this is often the case. We are often dumbfounded at how often candidates are hired without a single referee being called.”
“Incorporating a comprehensive shortlisting method as part of your recruitment process can help to minimise being caught out by the fabrications some ‘LinkedIn liars’ have created for potential employers. A little bit of effort at the recruitment stage could save your business a lot of trouble in the long run,” Marsden-Huggins said.
Employees are advised to stick with the facts when creating a LinkedIn profile.
“It is the same with LinkedIn as it is with life, untruths are usually uncovered at some stage. It’s best to portray yourself with truthful information in your LinkedIn profile to avoid damage to your reputation if and when colleagues find out you’ve lied and exaggerated. After all, LinkedIn is supposed to help your career and build credibility, but unverified information can actually do the opposite,” Marsden-Huggins said.
