Is That Job Posting Real? How to Identify 'Ghost' Listings and Stay Focused on Your Career Goals

You’ve spent hours perfecting your resume, tailoring your cover letter, and submitting applications, only to hear nothing back. Sound familiar? You might have applied to a ghost job, a job posting that doesn’t actually exist.

A recent survey found that 40% of companies have posted fake job listings in the past year, and 30% currently have ghost jobs listed. These deceptive postings aren’t just frustrating, they waste time and create unnecessary stress for job seekers.

So, why do companies post jobs they have no intention of filling?

Why Do Companies Post Ghost Jobs?

There are several reasons companies may list a job that isn’t real:

• Building a Resume Bank – Companies sometimes post roles just to gather resumes for future hiring needs
• Maintaining the Illusion of Growth – Some companies post jobs to appear as if they are expanding, even if they aren’t
• Market Research – Businesses may use job postings to gauge interest or see what salary expectations candidates have for certain roles
• Internal Hiring – A company may have already selected an internal candidate but still posts the job to follow HR policies

Regardless of the reason, ghost jobs waste your time and can make the job search feel even more discouraging. But don’t worry, you can spot these fake listings before investing your energy.

How to Spot a Ghost Job Posting

To avoid wasting time on non-existent opportunities, watch for these red flags:

1. Vague or Generic Descriptions – If the job lacks details about responsibilities, qualifications, or reporting structure, it could be a fake posting
2. Reposted Over and Over Again – Some jobs stay online for months or pop up repeatedly, which may mean they’re not actively hiring
3. No Contact Information – Legitimate job listings usually have a recruiter’s name or an email for applications. If there’s no way to follow up, it could be a ghost job
4. No Clear Application Process – If a job posting doesn’t specify how to apply or the application link doesn’t work, that’s a red flag
5. Unresponsive Recruiters – If you apply and never receive a confirmation email or any follow-up, the role might not be real

How to Protect Your Job Search and Find REAL Opportunities

While ghost jobs exist, there are still plenty of real opportunities out there. Instead of getting discouraged, use these actionable strategies to focus on the jobs that truly matter:

? Verify the Job Posting – Check the company’s website and LinkedIn page. If the job isn’t posted there, it might not be real

? Reach Out to Someone at the Company – Connect with employees or recruiters on LinkedIn and ask about the role before applying. A quick message like “Hey, I saw this role posted and wanted to confirm it’s an active hiring need. Would love to connect!” can give you clarity

? Monitor Your Applications – If a company frequently posts the same job but never actually hires, avoid applying there in the future

? Diversify Your Job Search – Don’t rely solely on job boards. Many roles aren’t even posted online—they’re filled through networking and referrals

? Focus on Networking with Key Leaders – Instead of waiting for the right job to appear, start conversations with decision-makers at companies you admire. Many hidden opportunities never get posted publicly, and a strong network can get you in the door

Stay Positive: The Right Opportunity Is Out There for You

It’s easy to feel frustrated when you apply for job after job and don’t hear back. But don’t let ghost jobs discourage you. Instead of focusing on what’s outside your control, take charge of your job search.

?? Stay focused on your goal – The right job is out there, and you are more than qualified to land it. ?? Don’t let rejection define you – Many talented professionals get ghosted; it’s not a reflection of your abilities. ?? Keep networking and building relationships – The best opportunities often come through word of mouth, not job boards. ?? Keep showing up – Post on LinkedIn, attend industry events, and make yourself visible. Employers can’t hire you if they don’t know you exist.

Remember, companies don’t create opportunities, people do. The more relationships you build, the more doors will open.

So, if you’ve been applying endlessly with little response, shift your focus. Make networking your #1 job search strategy, build meaningful connections, and let opportunities come to you.

Follow me, Robert Little, MBA. , for more insights on navigating your career and unlocking new opportunities.