Dear Nikhil & colleagues,

Quite a few are smart guys getting to the top and also remain unidentified for years. I have worked with such guys in Ops & Mktg depts of a large company. They were removed instantly after discovery of their actual qualification.Both were undergraduates and one became GM other Manager.

Many people write their CV in such length - they need double the years and capability to handle such responsibilities.

I have a few tips to identify such people or CVs:

1. They prefer functional CV to hide the gaps in studies or in employment. CV is unsigned.
2. They worked in unknown family-run companies and claim that no appointment letters were issued.
3. They have qualifications from Services (Defence or similar) and these qualifications are equivalent.
4. Overseas qualification while working.Names of the Principal or director not knowing.
5. CV is unusually longer. Anything beyond three pages need checking.
6. References given from one company or refers to one slot of time/job.
7. Can't remember the phone numbers and address of previous employers and can't provide the names of suppliers, bankers, accountants or customers of the business from whom references can be sought.
8. References have address, email ids but no phone or mobile numbers.
9. Can't give references of their bosses or colleagues.
10.Do not have copies of certificates available for verification.

During personal interview, they avoid personal questions, do not wish to disclose the names of schools, colleges and in some cases, do not expand the abbreviations of
their first and middle name. It is also tricky to ask whether they have an alumni network in the city or region.

I always throw such people and CVs out of my sight and network ASAP. Reference checking,intensive interview and verification of records should eliminate many such crooks from entering our domain.

More expected from our practising people.