It's disheartening that there have been over 294,000 reports of job scams in the U.S. since 2019, totaling a loss of $737 million. According to a study by the Identity Theft Resource Center, the number of reports increased by 118% in 2023 due to the rampant misuse of AI to mass-generate fake job ads.
But this isn't just about monetary loss; scam job postings also damage job seekers' faith in the recruitment system. Although job seekers need to exercise caution when applying for jobs, the onus is also on companies to take necessary precautions when posting job descriptions, notices, or ads and report fraudulent cases immediately.
This guide will list some common techniques recruitment scammers use and some practical measures you can take to create the best job postings that don't look like scams.
Quick ways to identify job scams
A scammer aims to extract personal information from job seekers, such as their credit card number, social security number, bank account details, and driver's license number. With this information, they can impersonate the job seeker to commit fraudulent activities, sell information to third parties, or steal money from their bank account.
Determining whether a job description is a scam has become challenging due to GenAI, which can create realistic ads. However, there are some signs that a listing may be a scam.
Promising unrealistic offers and benefits
Scammers try to lure job seekers by promising offers that are too good to be true. They also create a fake sense of urgency and a fear of missing out to prompt the job seeker to apply.
Listing vague job descriptions and requirements
Vague job descriptions and requirements indicate a scam job post. Legitimate ads always lay out what's expected of the candidate, along with the required skills and qualifications.
Requesting personal details and money
A genuine company never requests money for a job opportunity, as this is unethical and unprofessional. A legitimate company also will not ask for personal details early in the recruitment process. Personal information is only necessary for background verification, reference checks, and the onboarding process.
Avoiding communication
Companies looking to hire candidates will also have working websites, including pages for Careers, About Us, Contact Us, Products and Services, and Help. Meanwhile, most scammers resort to free, noncorporate email providers and have websites with spelling mistakes, incomplete information, phony staff, and a minimal digital footprint.
Creating job postings: do's and don'ts (with examples)
Once you know the techniques scammers use to lure job seekers, you can avoid creating job postings that look like scams.
Be specific about roles and responsibilities
Highlight what you expect from the candidate, including skills, qualifications, and certifications. Also, list the day-to-day tasks they'd perform as part of the role. Don't overexplain the role or be too vague. Here are some examples:
Do: As a marketing coordinator, you'll develop and execute campaigns, analyze performance data, and manage our social media platforms. It's a plus if you have at least two years of experience in digital marketing and proficiency in using analytics tools. We don't have strict requirements, so please apply if you have worked on similar projects before.
Don't: Marketing job available. Must handle marketing activities. Applications fill quickly. Apply ASAP.
Include salary and benefits clearly
Add a salary range and list key benefits that will be part of the job offer. These can include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Do extensive market research to ensure fair remuneration. Such transparency sets realistic expectations for the job seeker, letting them decide if the role suits their needs.
Below are some examples:
Do: Salary range: $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k) matching, and three weeks paid vacation.
Don't: Potential to earn six figures with unlimited bonus possibilities!
Use professional and inclusive language
Use inclusive language in your job descriptions to attract untapped talent sources, such as women, differently abled people, veterans, retirees, and those from LGBTQ+ or underrepresented groups. Often overlooked due to misconceptions, these groups bring experience, expertise, and competency. Here are some helpful tips:
- Replace terms such as "salesman" with "salesperson" to eliminate gender bias.
- Avoid acronyms and use full terms for clarity.
- Use age-neutral descriptions such as "energetic and driven" instead of age-specific phrases such as "young and energetic."
- State your interest in hiring diverse applicants by adding a phrase such as "We are committed to inclusion and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds."
"Scammers try to lure job seekers by promising offers that are too good to be true."
Check out these examples:
Do: We're looking for a content writer to join HeathSafe. In this role, you'll work on creating engaging blogs related to patient care and wellness. We value unique experiences and perspectives, and we encourage caregivers to apply!
Don't: Wanted: A savvy content creator ready to dominate the blogosphere. You should be familiar with SEO and able to produce content quickly to meet aggressive targets. Only three positions left. Committed individuals apply ASAP!
Mention the hiring process in the job description
Provide details on how to apply for the position you've advertised. This can include:
- Details on the number of interview rounds and mode of each (such as in-person, by telephone, or by video) to make the hiring process more transparent
- Information on any pre-screenings such as skills-assessment tests or video-based screenings
- Documents that a job seeker will need before they start, such as a resume, cover letter, experience letter, or portfolio samples
- Person to contact with additional queries
Below are some examples:
Do: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and two work samples via our online portal, www.linktotheuploadsite.com. The selection process will include an initial phone screen and two in-person interviews. Expect a response within three weeks. For questions, contact hr@company.com.
Don't: Exciting opportunity awaits! Fast-track your career by sending your resume and personal details directly to our special hiring team at fastjobs@applyquick.com. There's no need for formal interviews; just a quick chat, and you could be part of our team.
Add links that work
If you include any links for the job seeker to perform a specific task, check that the link is secure and works. Routinely check that the site is up and running. Avoid adding broken links or ones that lead to general pages requiring extensive navigation. Also, if you've updated your website recently, update the links.
Another good practice is having a website that's accessible and user-friendly. It should also have details about your company, board of directors, case studies, and other information that job seekers might need.
What can you do in the event of a scam?
If a candidate contacts you or tags you on social media about a job scam using your company name, you must take swift action:
- Note the fraudulent job posting and ask the job board to take it down immediately.
- Check for similar job postings on other job boards or channels.
- Inform the candidate of the steps you're taking to address their concern and provide a contact person.
- Help the candidate file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center and report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission.
- Have disclaimers on your careers page to help job seekers avoid job posting scams where scammers attempt to extract confidential details or sensitive information.
Scams through job postings are unfortunate, but you can use this guide for examples of ideal job postings as well as what to avoid. In the event of fraudulent activity, follow the remedial steps mentioned above.
Looking for quality candidates to hire? Post a job using CareerBuilder for personalized matches.
More tips to help you create apt job postings
To help you create job postings for different positions, look at the workforce trends in 2024.
Use this template to create a quality job posting.
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