Real or Fake? How to Spot Legit Job Posts in Seconds
Scrolling through endless job listings can feel like a game of chance – is that posting genuine or a trap? The good news is you don’t need a detective badge to spot the red flags. A few quick checks can save you hours of wasted effort and protect your personal info.
Check the basics: contact info and email domain
First look at the company name and the email address used. Real recruiters usually send from a corporate domain (like @company.com). If you see a free email service such as Gmail, Yahoo, or a misspelled version of the company’s name, hit pause. Also, verify the phone number – a quick Google search should pull up a valid office line. When the contact details disappear into a blank page, that’s a warning sign.
Read the job description for consistency
A genuine posting will clearly outline responsibilities, required skills, and the location. Vague language like “high earnings, no experience needed” or a list of unrelated duties often points to a scam. Look for realistic salary ranges – if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Real jobs also mention a proper application process; be wary of messages that ask for your bank details or upfront fees.
Next, search the company’s name alongside words like “scam” or “review.” Sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and even a simple forum thread can reveal whether others have had trouble. If the company has a solid online presence with employee profiles, you’re on safer ground.
Another quick test is to check the job posting’s source. Major job portals (Naukri, Indeed, LinkedIn) have verification steps, while random blogs or social media posts might not. If you land on a brand‑new website that only hosts that one job ad, treat it with skepticism.
When you apply, keep your personal data minimal. A resume with basic contact info is enough for the first round. Any request for your passport, Aadhaar, or bank statements before an interview should raise immediate alarms.
Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off – the tone, the urgency, or the promises – step back and double‑check. A few minutes of extra research beats weeks of dealing with a fake offer.
By running these simple checks, you can separate the real opportunities from the fake ones and focus your energy on jobs that actually move your career forward.
