Applying for jobs can be nerve-wracking. Especially if you keep putting in applications and hearing nothing back, even if you’re fully qualified for the job. If this is a recurring event in your job search, you might just be haunted… by ghost jobs.
Ghost jobs are job listings companies post but don’t intend on filling. Usually after someone applies for a ghost job, they get… for a lack of a better word… ghosted. They receive no response from the employer even after weeks of waiting and follow up emails. These listings are different than job scams, where the end goal is to take financial advantage of the applicant or steal their personal information. The only thing that is taken advantage of when you apply for a ghost job is your time and energy.
They exist for a variety of reasons. First, they give the illusion of growth to investors and shareholders. Second, having a job listing open means that a company can build a pool of potential employees for high turnover jobs. Third, they can motivate employees, either by fooling them into thinking the company is expanding or by signaling that “everyone is replaceable.” It’s not the worst thing in the world to apply for one, but if you’re seriously looking for employment, it can be a huge setback. However, here are four ways to identify a ghost job before you apply.
#1: Check when the job was posted
If a job has been listed for over a month, there is a good chance that it is not a position the company is actively looking to fill. This isn’t always the case, as according to Indeed, higher-level positions and industries with high turnover like food service and retail keep listings up for longer.
#2: Check the job description
Ghost jobs will often have vague descriptions with wide salary margins and loose requirements. Legitimate job postings will go into the daily responsibilities and provide details into hiring requirements and salary brackets.
#3: Cross-reference with other sources
If you find a job listed on an external job board like LinkedIn or ZipRecruiter, check the company website and see if it’s listed on there. Also, look for any news reports of recent layoffs or hiring freezes, as companies are unlikely to hire new employees after the fact.
#4: Inquire about the job directly
Look for an HR or recruiter contact for the company and inquire about the job directly. Not only does this help ensure you aren’t applying for a fake job, but it shows initiative and drive. In the same vein, networking and attending professional events can help you get hired without having to hunt for listings on job boards.
Ghost jobs aren’t entirely a waste, as many companies do use them to build an applicant pool, but they aren’t conducive to getting hired in a timely fashion. So remember to keep your eye out, and always keep applying for positions, even if you’re still waiting to hear back from a previous application.
Tired of ghost jobs? Area Temps has new listings for temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire positions on a regular basis. If you’re looking for a new job, check out our job board and see if we’re hiring in your industry or area. Or click here to contact your nearest Area Temps office to inquire about job opportunities.
