Ghost jobs, also known as fake jobs or phantom jobs, are advertised job openings that don’t actually exist. So, what’s the point of posting them?
Ghost jobs are not a new fad. For ages, businesses have been using this tactic for various reasons to assess the current talent pool for a specific skill set, create an impression that the company is growing, and seldom, due to uncertainty around the hiring process.
The downside?
Flooding the market with fake opportunities is a colossal waste of job seekers’ time and energy. This phenomenon also contributes to job hunt fatigue and frustration among job seekers, particularly among Gen Zs, who are already struggling to find employment opportunities in a competitive market
Continue reading to find out how to identify and steer clear of ghost jobs in this economy.
What Are Ghost Jobs?
Ghost jobs or fake jobs are advertised positions that companies have no intention of filling. According to this report, almost 73% of applicants fall for this trick.
Recruiters do this for sneaky reasons like making themselves seem like a hiring powerhouse or to gauge the talent pool without actually needing new employees.
Some companies use this practice to avoid discrimination lawsuits, while others just want to identify promising recruits for future hiring. These job ads often have catchy titles, vague descriptions, or lack detail, and may be full reposts of previous job ads.
How Ghost Jobs Can Mask Deeper Issues
While the time wasted applying for ghost jobs is frustrating enough on its own, the real danger lies in what these fake positions can potentially hide.
Here’s how ghost jobs can be a gateway to more serious scams and unethical practices:
- Data Collection: Many job posters use fake jobs with the goal of collecting personal information from applicants, like resumes and contact details. This data often gets sold to third parties or used for spam campaigns.
- Free Labor: Phantom job postings can trick applicants into doing actual work for free, like completing sample projects or test assignments, with no guarantee of a real job at the end.
- Unethical Content Creation: Ghost jobs can be used to create misleading content such as fake reviews or social media posts promoting products or services. This way, the unaware applicant unwittingly ends up creating content that deceives consumers.
- Money Laundering: In extreme cases, ghost jobs are used as a front for money laundering. Applicants might be unknowingly tasked with moving money through fake transactions disguised as payments for ghostwork.
How to Spot a Ghost Job: Red Flags to Watch Out For
The prevalence of ghost jobs in the online job market can make it challenging to distinguish legitimate opportunities from shams. However, by being vigilant and aware of the red flags, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a real job.
Below are some tips to help you spot fake jobs from a mile away:
Vague Job Description
A well-written job posting clearly outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for the role. If you find the JD overly generic, as such, lacking specific details about the day-to-day tasks or required skills, it’s wise to move on.
Persistent Job Posting
Legitimate job openings, especially entry-level positions, tend to get filled within a reasonable timeframe. If you see the same job advertised repeatedly for weeks or even months, take it as a sign to ignore the job post.
Unrealistic Job Requirements
Companies generally have specific skill sets and experience levels they look for in potential candidates. If the job requirements seem completely unrelated to the position or lack any specific details, it’s a red flag.
Communication Black Hole
Most companies, even when overwhelmed with applications, will send an automated message acknowledging your application. If you submit your resume and receive no response at all, even after weeks, you should move on because there’s a high chance the job doesn’t exist or the marked “open” position has already been filled.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Promises
Beware of job postings that offer exceptionally high salaries or benefits with minimal experience requirements. Legitimate companies usually have a clear pay scale based on experience and qualifications. You know what they say, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Inconsistent Company Information
Discrepancies in the job posting’s contact details, company history, or the complete absence of an online presence scream a red flag. Take your time to verify the company’s authenticity by cross-checking the information provided with their official website and social media profiles.
Outdated Posting Date
When scouring job boards, always notice the posting date. The longer a job has been open without being filled, the higher the possibility it might be a ghost job. Legitimate positions typically attract a pool of applicants and get filled within a reasonable timeframe.
Missing Website or Social Media
A company that cares about their reputation will have a professional website that outlines its services, mission, and team.
Almost all companies today have social media channels where you can learn more about their company culture and connect with them directly. If the company you’re applying to lacks both a website and social media presence, proceed with caution.
In Conclusion, Let Caution Be Your Guide
If something about the job post strikes you as odd, reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter and inquire about the specifics of the position, compensation, and the application process. A legitimate company will be transparent and happy to answer your questions.
And if there are no proper contact details, take it as a sign to keep scrolling until you find a legitimate opening. Stay alert!
