How to Avoid "Ghost Jobs" in Your Job Search?

Job seekers often worry when they apply for a position and don't hear back, especially when the job posting stays online for weeks. While you might think it's your resume or job search method, there's a chance it's a ghost job, not your approach, causing the lack of response.

No, these aren't spooky Halloween tales; they're real job postings that lead nowhere.

While I was researching this topic for answers, I stumbled upon a fascinating survey by Clarify Capital, which reveals some surprising trends about these positions.

Let me break down the stats from the survey:

- 68% of job postings linger for over 30 days.

- 1 in 10 job listings hangs around for more than 6 months.

- 1 in 5 employers has no plans to fill positions until 2023.

- 50% of employers keep job postings open just to see if new candidates show interest.

So, what does this mean?

These jobs are not real openings, and they are not the same as job scams.

Ghost Jobs are positions posted by companies without any intention of actually hiring someone.

Sneaky, right?

But you don't need to fall victim to these jobs;?

Am sharing 6 strategies to identify Ghost Jobs and save yourself from the frustration of applying to jobs that lead absolutely nowhere:

1. Clear Job Descriptions:

???- Watch out for job postings with descriptions that sound more like riddles. If it's unclear or lacks real information, it might be a Ghost Job.

2. Check the Job Posting Date:

???- Use platforms that show when the job was first posted. Older postings, especially beyond?

30 days, could be Ghost Jobs in disguise.

3. No Response? Move On:

???- If you're met with silence after applying, it might be a sign. Don't waste your time on follow-ups for Ghost Jobs. They're not worth it.

4. Avoid old job Postings:

???- Older job postings have a higher chance of being Ghost Jobs. Stick to newer ones for a better shot at a real opportunity.

5. Focus on Fresh Postings:

???- Look for jobs that have been active within the past 24 hours or, at most, a month. The fresher, the better.

6. Company Website Check:

???- Be your own detective. Visit the company's official website to check the status of older job postings. A real job should be on their careers page.

Sri’s Pro Tip: Apply directly on the company's website, and if you ever suspect a job might be a Ghost or a scam, reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter directly on LinkedIn.?

This gets you real-time information and helps you dodge potential Ghost Jobs.

Job hunting can be tough, the above strategies will help you to look for real opportunities that align with your career goals.