How to Spot a ‘Ghost’ Job Before You Apply

New York: Have you ever applied for a job only to feel like you were ghosted? Well, there’s a twist—some jobs might not even exist! These “ghost jobs” are listings that companies post without any real intention of hiring. It’s frustrating for job seekers, and it’s more common than you think. Reports say that up to 22% of job listings can be ghost jobs.

So, why do companies do this? Sometimes, they want to look like they’re growing or to keep current employees hopeful about new hires. Other times, they’re just trying to build a pool of candidates for future openings. But whatever the reason, it can waste your time.

To avoid falling for these traps, keep an eye out for certain signs. If a job has been posted for over 30 days, that’s a red flag. You might want to check the company’s careers page to see if the listing is still active. Also, look for detailed job descriptions. If it’s vague, it might just be a quick post to see who bites.

If you get an interview, don’t hesitate to ask about the timeline for hiring. Questions like “When do you expect to make a decision?” can give you insight into how serious they are. If they seem slow to respond, it might mean they’re not in a rush to fill the role.

Ultimately, being proactive in your job search is key. Don’t just rely on job postings. Check out the company’s website and social media for more info. Gathering this kind of intel can really help you navigate the job market better.