Should I consider exaggerating my CV (Resume)?
I’m a front-end developer with several years of professional experience using Vue and other UI libraries in my daytime job. However, I have significantly more experience with React through my personal projects.
Whenever I apply for React positions, employers seem to prioritize only the React experience gained in a 9-5 setting, overlooking my personal work.
Should I modify my Vue experience to reflect React instead? After all, the skills are quite similar.
2 responses to “Is lying on my CV ever acceptable?”
I understand your frustration, but I strongly advise against lying on your CV. While it might seem tempting to adjust your experience to fit what employers are looking for, misrepresenting your background can have serious consequences. If you’re caught, it could damage your reputation and credibility in the industry.
Instead, consider highlighting the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from your personal projects. You can include them in your CV under a separate section, such as “Personal Projects” or “Additional Experience.” Emphasize key technologies, frameworks, and accomplishments relevant to React, even if they didn’t happen in a formal job setting.
Additionally, focus on transferable skills you’ve developed as a front-end developer, such as understanding component-based architecture, state management, and responsive design. Tailor your CV to showcase how your Vue experience can transition to React development.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to be open about your desire to work more with React in interviews. Many employers appreciate candidates who are eager to expand their skill set. Good luck!
It’s a common dilemma many professionals face, especially in tech where practical skills often transcend the formalities of job titles and specific technologies. While it’s tempting to modify your CV to align more closely with job descriptions, I would advise against outright lying or misrepresenting your experience.
Instead, consider emphasizing the **transferable skills** you’ve gained through your work with Vue that are directly applicable to React. Highlight any projects where you utilized design principles, state management, or component-based architecture that are relevant to both frameworks. Additionally, don’t hesitate to include your personal projects with React on your CV. Clearly describe what you achieved or learned in those projects, and frame them as valuable experience.
Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of practical experience, not just formal employment, so presenting your personal work effectively can work to your advantage. Finally, during interviews, be honest about your experience and express your enthusiasm for continuing to grow your skills in React. This approach will not only keep your integrity intact but also showcase your dedication to professional development.