How to Spot and Avoid Ghost Positions When Job Searching
Job searching can be tough; unfortunately, scammers know it, too. One of the most frustrating scams job seekers face is the “ghost position,” a fake job listing designed to trick applicants into sharing personal information or paying fees. The good news? You can protect yourself with a few smart strategies. Here’s expert advice from Ed McKersie, Founder and President of ProSearch, to help you spot and avoid these scams.
What Is A Ghost Position?
A ghost position is a fake job listing created by scammers to lure unsuspecting job seekers. At first glance, these postings may look legitimate, but they’re hiding something. Sometimes, the goal is to steal your personal information, while other times, scammers may try to charge “application fees” or other bogus charges. Knowing the signs of a ghost position is your first line of defense.
How To Spot A Ghost Position
Worried about wasting time on fake job postings? Here’s how to spot the red flags and protect yourself:
1. Research the Company
- If the posting mentions a company name, take a few minutes to research it online.
- Visit the company’s official website and see if the position is listed there.
- Look for third-party reviews about the company’s legitimacy, such as Google Reviews.
- See if the company has other active job listings or a dedicated “Careers” page on its website.
2. Check for Signs of a Fake Employer
- Ghost companies often have little or no online presence.
- If the job posting includes a link to a website, look for signs of legitimacy, like a “Contact Us” page, a business address, and employee bios.
3. Watch Out for Suspicious Requests
- Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay an application fee.
- Be cautious if you’re asked to share personal information (like Social Security numbers or bank details) too early in the process.
4. Look for Grammar and Formatting Issues
- Reputable companies put effort into their job postings. Sloppy formatting and numerous grammatical errors can be a sign that a posting isn’t legitimate.
5. Trust Your Instincts
- If something feels off—like being asked to “act quickly” or “secure your spot” with a payment—step back and reevaluate.
What Should You Do If You’ve Applied to a Ghost Position?
If you’ve applied to a ghost position, don’t panic. Here’s how you can protect your personal information:
- Stop Interacting: If you’ve shared any information with the scammer, stop responding immediately.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Check your bank, credit card, and other financial accounts for suspicious activity.
- Change Passwords: If you’ve shared login credentials or other sensitive info, update your passwords immediately.
- Report the Scam: Notify the job board where the position was posted and consider reporting it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as well.
Protect Yourself From Ghost Positions
Job hunting is already a challenge—you shouldn’t have to worry about scams on top of it. By doing a bit of research, listening to your instincts, and staying cautious about who you’re sharing information with, you’ll avoid most ghost positions. Take the time to verify employers, be wary of jobs that ask for payments or sensitive details, and always trust your gut. If something feels off, move on to the next opportunity.
Join the ProSearch Network Today!
At ProSearch, we’re dedicated to helping job seekers connect with real, verified opportunities. If you’re ready to find a role that’s the right fit for you, join the ProSearch Network today. Our recruiters will connect you with trusted employers and exclusive opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Ready to find your next role (that actually exists)? Let’s get to work!