7. Beware of Scams in the Remote Job Search Market
It’s sad to say, but with the rising popularity of remote work, scammers are taking advantage. They post fake job listings on legitimate platforms like Indeed, luring unsuspecting candidates into schemes that steal money or personal information.
A common scam? Fake job offers that ask for upfront payments for equipment or software or “companies” contacting you via text or asking you to communicate on WhatsApp or Telegram.These scams are designed to exploit the demand for remote jobs and the eagerness of job seekers.
Pro tip: Always verify job postings directly through the company’s official website. If you find a remote job on a third-party site, head over to the company’s official careers page and apply from there. Trusted platforms like FlexJobs are also great for weeding out potential scams since they vet every listing.
Want more tips on how to avoid remote job scams? I’ve got you covered!
8. The Rise of “Ghost Jobs”
One of the most frustrating trends in today’s job market is the increase in “ghost jobs”—positions that are posted by companies with no intention of actually hiring. Some companies leave job postings open indefinitely, even if they aren’t actively hiring.
Why do companies post ghost jobs?
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They want to appear attractive to new talent.
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It keeps current employees motivated.
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Gives the impression that the company is growing.
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In some cases, companies are legally required to post a job publicly before making an internal hire.
How to spot a ghost job posting?
While there’s no foolproof way to avoid ghost jobs, unfortunately, using job sites (like FlexJobs) and networking to learn about roles before they’re publicly posted can save you time. Also, watch for vague job descriptions or listings that seem to remain open indefinitely.
9. AI is Everywhere
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having a massive impact on the remote job search process in two main ways:
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Job seekers using AI for applications: Tools like ChatGPT are being used to draft resumes and cover letters, but so far, the quality isn’t where it needs to be. AI-generated content often lacks the personalized touch that can make an application stand out. While it might feel like a time-saving trick, in reality, it can make your application appear generic and uninspired.
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AI in the hiring process: From Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to AI-driven interview tools, AI also shapes how candidates are evaluated. Many companies use AI to filter through resumes and applications, which means it’s critical to tailor your application with the right keywords. With that said though, the human touch is still important. AI might screen the application, but real people make the final hiring decisions.
While AI can’t replace the human touch (yet), you can expect it to be a tool that enhances your work rather than replaces it. Instead of relying on AI for applications, focus on crafting thoughtful and targeted content yourself. This balance will ensure your application feels authentic. Inside The Remote Career Accelerator and my 1:1 Remote Career Coaching I have specific frameworks you can use to create high quality, custom applications, in less time.
