I lied on my résumé to get a better-paying job — and I think others should do the same

• Insider recently spoke to an accounting employee who lied on their résumé to get their current job.
• They lied about work experience and software proficiency after staying home with their daughter.
• "I'm glad I lied on my résumé," they said. "It's made a world of a difference in my quality of life."

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with a 37-year-old who works in accounting. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect their career, but Insider has verified their identity and employment. The following has been edited for length and clarity.