Remote jobs have become commonplace. Unfortunately, so have fake or misleading remote job ads. They have exploded online and job seekers have to be careful when considering applying for remote jobs. Our Toronto recruitment agency comes across these types of remote job ads all the time. They are not difficult to find, especially on social media.
I’ve even had instances where job candidates have contacted me about a fake remote job ad where someone posed as IQPARTNERS. So, I want to help job searchers understand the difference between a legitimate remote job ad and a fraudulent ad. Here are 7 red flags to look for in remote job ads:
Absence of Company Information
The job ad does not mention the company name (unless it’s posted by a recruitment company like us) or a quick search for the company yields no results or a poorly designed website. The company has little to no online presence or reviews. This is a surefire sign of a fake ad.
The Job Description Uses Vague Language
Good job ads have a lot of detail. Watch out for ads where the job responsibilities and expectations are unclear or overly broad. If there is a lack of specific details about what the job entails, proceed with caution.
Also, look out for job ads with no mention of work structure. For example, the job ad lacks details on work hours, reporting structure, or how work will be evaluated. Or, there is no mention of the tools or systems used for remote collaboration and communication.
Unrealistic Promises That Are Too Good To Be True
As they say, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Watch out for ads promising very high salaries with minimal work or qualifications. The same goes for benefits and perks. Be wary of ads that list unusually generous benefits that seem disproportionate to the job role or industry standards.
The Ad Requests Upfront Fees
This is a huge red flag. Never apply for a role where you are asked to pay money upfront for training, equipment, or application processing. Or if a job ad requires you to purchase expensive materials or subscriptions.
Poor Grammar, Spelling, and Communication
Another sign that a remote job ad may not be legitimate is ads with numerous spelling or grammatical errors. The same is true of emails or communications from the employer that are unprofessional or come from generic, non-corporate email addresses (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo).
The Job Ads Use Pressure Tactics
Pressure tactics are another common red flag. You are pressured to make quick decisions or sign contracts immediately. Or, the employer insists on getting personal information quickly without a formal interview process.
There Is A Lack of Clear Application Process
Be cautious when the application process is vague, or you’re asked to provide sensitive personal information early on. Another red flag is when the ad asks for your SIN number, bank details, or other personal financial information before an interview.
A Final Word About Remote Job Ad Red Flags
By being vigilant for these red flags, you can better protect yourself from scams, unprofessional employers, and roles that might not provide the security and satisfaction you’re seeking in a remote job.
More From Our Recruitment Agency About Job Ads
A Data-Backed Argument for Removing “Years of Experience” From Job Ads
How to Write a Killer Job Description: A Checklist
