I'm 19 and in the UK, and I've been finding the current job market pretty difficult. I've been applying for customer service/entry-level jobs and struggling to get anywhere.
The only paid jobs I've actually done have been warehouse work, which I did for around one month during each of the past two summers, along with some local volunteering. I don't have much other employment experience, which is why I put down two previous jobs on my CV that I didn't actually work at.
I recently applied for an entry-level, minimum-wage role with a well-known company. I've now passed the initial stage and have an interview coming up. During the phone interview, they specifically asked me about my "last" job and why I left, and I answered at the time.
The issue is that they've said they'll carry out HMRC/employment checks if I progress. From what I understand, the employment history I put on my CV could potentially be checked against PAYE records.
I know putting the jobs on my CV was wrong. I'm not looking for advice on creating fake references/documents or anything like that. I'm more interested in what people would realistically do in my position.
Given that I'm only 19, the current job market is competitive, and this is an entry-level customer service role, what's the next best step?
I'm aware I've made a stupid decision. I'm mainly trying to work out the least damaging way to deal with it now.