With the rise of remote work and digital networking, LinkedIn has become one of the most popular platforms for finding and applying to jobs. However, as with many things online, scams and fake job postings can be a risk. So how can you tell if a job posting on LinkedIn is legitimate or not? Here are some tips to spot real vs fake job ads on LinkedIn.
Check for details and consistency
A major red flag is vague, generic job descriptions that could apply to any role. Legitimate postings will have specific details like job responsibilities, required skills/experience, and qualifications. There should also be consistency across the job title, description, and listed requirements.
Watch out for sketchy phrases like “urgent hiring” or “easy money.” And if the job duties sound too good to be true, like you’ll be a virtual assistant but also help run the company, use caution.
Research the company
Do a quick Google search on the company name from the job ad. Does their website look professional? Do they have clear contact info, an address, recent news articles mentioning them? Check for any reviews on sites like Glassdoor as well.
Scan their LinkedIn page too. Do they have a decent number of followers and engaging posts? You can even look up current employees on LinkedIn to see if they list that company on their profile.
Ask for more details
If you’re interested in a job ad but have some reservations, reach out to the poster (whether it’s a recruiter or hiring manager) with questions.
Ask things like:
- Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities?
- What are the immediate priorities you’d like someone in this role to tackle?
- How does the interview process work?
A detailed, thoughtful response is a good sign. If they dodge questions or give vague answers, that’s suspicious.
Watch for poor grammar and spelling
Typos can happen occasionally, but consistent grammar and spelling mistakes are a red flag. Legitimate companies will put more care into their job postings.
Errors may indicate the job posters are not actually native English speakers familiar with the company hiring, or that it’s an individual scammer versus a real business.
Beware job scams
Some fake job posts are actually ploys to steal personal information or money. Here are some common job scams to watch out for:
- Fake checks – They “hire” you and send a check for supplies/equipment, which you deposit. You return part of the money, and then the check bounces leaving you liable.
- Personal information phishing – The “hiring manager” asks for sensitive info like bank account and Social Security numbers for your “background check.”
- Mystery/vague jobs – You’re “hired” for a murky role requiring upfront payment for training or materials.
Trust your gut
If a job posting feels fishy, seems too good to be true, or you have unanswered questions, don’t ignore your gut feeling. Move on and continue your search for roles at reputable companies.
How to vet a LinkedIn recruiter
Instead of applying directly through LinkedIn, you may be contacted by a recruiter. Be extra diligent vetting recruiters, as some scam artists pose as them.
Things to check:
- Do they have a LinkedIn Recruiter badge on their profile?
- Are they employed by a known staffing agency with a valid website/office?
- Do they have recommendations from past candidates they’ve placed?
A recruiter should also have specific details about the hiring company and role. Be wary if they stay vague when asked for more info.
Report suspicious job posts
If you’re confident a job posting on LinkedIn is a scam, you can report it to LinkedIn by clicking the three dots icon next to the job title, then “report this job.” This helps LinkedIn remove fake listings and keep the platform useful.
How to find legitimate jobs on LinkedIn
Despite risks of fakes, LinkedIn can still be a valuable tool in your job search if you use it carefully. Here are tips for finding real, vetted job opportunities:
- Check the job posted by line – postings by LinkedIn itself are reviewed to ensure legitimacy.
- Look for jobs at companies where you have existing connections, who can vouch for the opening.
- Focus on listings from known, reputable companies in your industry/field.
- Check for LinkedIn’s blue “Verified” tick badge on larger company pages.
Premium LinkedIn members also have access to verified job listings in the “Jobs” section. This curates openings from legitimate employers.
Use LinkedIn to connect, not necessarily apply
Instead of applying to job ads directly, many experts recommend using LinkedIn mainly for:
- Networking and connecting with professionals at companies you’re interested in.
- Researching insights about a company’s culture, values, and work environment from employees’ profiles and posts.
- Following companies to get notified of future openings that may not be posted yet.
With this approach, you focus on relationship-building first. That way once you do apply officially, you already have contacts at the company who can vouch for you.
Conclusion
While LinkedIn can be a place to discover new job opportunities, approach postings with care and vetting. There are risks of scams and misinformation. Do your homework researching the companies and roles to identify legitimate, verified openings. Focus on connecting with professionals already inside target organizations, and leverage your network to uncover unposted jobs. With some extra diligence, LinkedIn can still benefit your job search and career growth.
Red Flags in Job Postings | Signs of Legitimate Jobs |
---|---|
Generic, vague descriptions | Specific details on duties and qualifications |
Overly eager verbiage like “Urgent hiring!” | Professional language and conduct |
Roles too good to be true | Market-rate job titles, salaries, and responsibilities |
Grammar and spelling errors | Accurate, well-written posts |
Fishy requests for personal details | Normal application and hiring processes |
No clear company information | Company details check out |
Common Job Scams
Job scammers use LinkedIn and other sites. Watch for these tactics:
- Fake checks – Deposit check, return funds, then check bounces
- Personal info phishing – Requesting banking details and SSN for “background checks”
- Vague roles requiring upfront payments for “training” or “materials”
Tips for Finding Real Jobs
Apply these strategies when evaluating openings:
- Vet jobs posted directly by LinkedIn
- Prioritize openings at companies you’re connected to already
- Focus on roles at known, reputable organizations
- Confirm company pages have LinkedIn’s blue “Verified” checkmark
Premium members can also access curated jobs in the official “Jobs” section.
Rather than applying directly, many pros suggest using LinkedIn mainly for networking and research. Follow companies and build relationships first so you’re already connected when a relevant opening arises.
The takeaway
LinkedIn can absolutely help advance your career through networking and exposure to new roles. But continue using healthy skepticism when evaluating postings to avoid job scams. Vet companies thoroughly, watch for red flags, and leverage your connections. With some extra diligence, you can uncover legitimate opportunities that align with your experience and career aspirations.