5 Times It’s OK to “Lie” in an Interview

Let’s be honest: job interviews aren’t confessional booths. They’re part performance, part marketing, and yes, sometimes, a bit of strategic storytelling. As a career coach, I never advocate for dishonesty that could get you fired or ruin your reputation. But there are a few moments in the interview process when a little finesse, reframing, or “white lie” can work in your favor — without crossing any ethical lines.

Here are five situations where it’s totally okay to bend the truth in a job interview — and why doing so might just help you land the offer:

1. Your Five-Year Plan

The question: “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

The truth: Maybe you want to launch your own business, go to grad school, or take a career break to raise a family.

Why it’s okay to lie a little: Employers want to hear that your goals align with the company’s. If your honest answer doesn’t involve sticking around, now’s not the time to say so. A strategic answer like “I see myself growing into a leadership role here and contributing to long-term company goals” keeps you in the running — even if your real five-year plan looks very different.

2. Why You’re Leaving Your Current Job

The question: “Why are you looking for a new role?”

The truth: You’re miserable. Your manager is toxic. You’re underpaid and overworked.

Why it’s okay to reframe: Venting about a bad job reflects poorly on you, not your employer. Instead, spin it in a professional, forward-thinking way. Try something like: “I’ve grown a lot in my current role, and I’m ready for new challenges that align with my long-term goals.”

3. How You Feel About Your Boss and Coworkers

The question: “Tell me about your current team.”

The truth: Your boss is a micromanager, your team is disorganized, and morale is in the basement.

Why it’s okay to keep it vague: Criticizing colleagues — even when justified — raises red flags. A hiring manager may wonder how you’ll talk about them in the future. A safer route: “I’ve learned a lot working with different personalities, and I’ve developed strong collaboration skills as a result.”

4. Your Personal Life and Hobbies

The question: “What do you like to do outside of work?”

The truth: You unwind with reality TV, scrolling social media, and sleeping in on weekends.

Why it’s okay to curate your answer: It’s a weird question, and in most cases, irrelevant. But if you’re asked, choose answers that reflect well on you. Mentioning your love for reading, running, travel, or creative hobbies like photography or cooking paints a fuller — and more professional — picture.

5. Your Job Title and Responsibilities

The question: “What was your role at your last company?”

The truth: Your title was “Assistant,” but you’ve been running projects like a manager for over a year.

Why it’s okay to embellish within reason: Titles don’t always reflect the reality of your work. If you’ve been performing above your level without the official recognition, it’s fair game to reframe your role to reflect your actual contributions — especially if it helps bridge the gap to your next opportunity. Just be ready to back it up with specific examples.

Final Thoughts:

Lying about credentials, education, dates of employment, or language fluency? Big no-no. Tactfully managing how you present yourself? That’s not lying — it’s positioning. The interview is your chance to show why you’re the right person for the role. So don’t overshare, don’t self-sabotage, and don’t be afraid to polish your answers to shine.

You’re not being fake — you’re being strategic. And in the job search game, that’s not just okay. It’s essential.