Applying for jobs online is an arduous, time-consuming process. Even more time-consuming is chasing down a job offer that ends up being nothing but a waste of time, effort or money. While you can’t always spot danger, recognizing these 5 red flags in a job posting will help you avoid trouble.
1. Vague Job Descriptions
Be wary of job postings that are unclear about the actual position itself. This can include contradictory language in the title itself – such as “Entry-Level IT Manager.” If the description of the job fails to lay out specific duties, this can also be a warning sign. Conversely, a job description that lays out a huge variety of duties could point to a company trying to hire a “multi-purpose” position. A short job posting isn’t automatically a red flag, as long as the information in the post explains what the position is clearly.
2. “Earning Potential” Instead of a Specific Salary
A job listing that doesn’t include a salary isn’t a red flag, but a posting that repeatedly states the job offers “unlimited earning potential” or that suggests that a low salary will be supplemented by bonuses is a massive red flag. Additionally, if you apply for a job and the hiring manager is cagey about answering direct salary questions, that’s a sign to walk away. If a job salary relies heavily on commission, be sure to ask the hiring manager how many employees currently receive commission and what the metrics are. If they can’t give you a straight answer, you should apply elsewhere.
3. Job Requires Long Periods of Unpaid Training
This red flag usually comes up during the interview process, but some job listings will be upfront that the job requires unpaid training. It’s important to find out exactly how long the unpaid training is expected to last. Some unscrupulous companies will use unpaid training as a ruse for free labor.
4. You’re Asked to Submit Sensitive Information
It’s standard for a job posting to ask for a name, contact information and resume. What’s not standard to ask for is sensitive information like a social security number or copy of driver’s license. You should be extremely suspicious of any job postings that want you to submit such sensitive information online during such an early stage of the hiring process. Never submit any personal information on a website that does not have SSL security – look for a lock in the URL bar.
5. No Qualifications Listed
Job postings that don’t include any specific qualifications can also be a red flag. No qualifications, no desired skills and no required education is all extremely suspicious. Even job postings for non-specialized positions will still list out requirements. If the job seems like it’s taking anyone who will apply, that can be a warning sign for a scam or multilevel marketing scheme.
Why a Job Recruiter Keeps You Safe
Working with an experienced recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you avoid a lot of these red flags. A recruiter will vet every single employer that uses their service, ensuring that you’re only applying to reputable businesses.
Check Our Job ListingsStrom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.
