ATS & Job Search

Reading the job advert

If you haven't noticed any signs of fakery or a scam so far, the next stage is to check the job advert. Here are the main things to look out for:

• spelling mistakes and typos
• a job opportunity that seems too good to be true
• a personal email address, for instance via Gmail or Outlook, instead of a company email
• no mention of company website
• a vague description that leaves it unclear what the job is or entails
• any request for money or bank details
• the claim that no experience is required

If the job advert checks out, or only one of the above is evident, the next step is to research the company.

Investigating the employer

Researching any job you apply for and prospective employer is always recommended but especially so if you're checking for authenticity.

Have a look for the company's website and social media accounts. Does the job advert match with the employer's general online presence? Is the job advertised on their website or social media? Does the email address of the recruiter or the contact details in the advert match with the company website?

For more on this, read 5 ways to research an employer.

After you show interest in the job advert

All seems good so far. The way in which you became aware of the job advert feels genuine. The job advert itself looks good. Even the employer checks out. At this point, you may feel comfortable enough to lower your guard but there's one more way to check whether this is a fake or scam job advert. What happens when you apply for the job?

If you experience any of the following responses, the job advert is probably a scam:

• You are asked to supply your bank details before you’ve landed the job.
• You are asked to pay for checks as part of a screening process.
• You are asked to hand over your passport or driving licence.
• You are asked to pay a membership fee so that you can access products, resources, or a website.
• You are asked to call premium rate telephone numbers and are left on hold for ages.
• You are invited to interview by messaging app. Generally, an interview will take place in person or by video-call.
• You are asked to buy start-up products or equipment from the company. While this is common practice for MLM companies like Avon, Usborne, and Oriflame, it’s worth investigating whether the company is genuine before you part with your money. It’s also recommended that you consider whether you can afford to spend money first so that you can earn an income later.
• You have a bad feeling about the job advert and the people behind it.

By the way, did you know that you can protect yourself from identity theft by being careful about what you include in your CV? To find out more, read What to avoid on your CV.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The key to avoiding fake or scam job adverts is to use reputable sources of jobs like JobLookup, to thoroughly scan job adverts for red flags, fully research prospective employers, and to always listen to your gut.