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 7 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. Poor Grammar or Typos
Another red flag you may discover during your job hunt is job postings with poorly written job descriptions or typos. Depending on the quality of the job posting and the listed information, grammatical errors or a typo can indicate a poorly written job posting or scam attempt. Use caution and thoroughly assess the content to determine the job posting’s legitimacy.
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4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
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7. No Mention of Benefits
Depending on the position you are applying for, this may or may not be a red flag. A part-time job, a contract position or an opening with a smaller company may not provide benefits. Know what you want in the job you are seeking. If you are applying for a full-time position where similar jobs do offer benefits, such as medical, retirement and paid time off, it could be a red flag if the job posting does not. Benefits are important to employees and are considered to be part of the compensation package; because of this, employers are sure to promote them to attract potential employees.
When searching for a new job, you’ll need to use your best judgment and research each employer and job opportunity. Some red flags are more concerning than others and will be a sure tell sign of a scam, or misrepresented job, whereas others may just illustrate a poorly written job posting.
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.
