Ghost Jobs: Why do they exist and how they impact job-seekers?

Ghost job postings generally never existed or the position has been filled. (Representational)

In the fast-paced world of online job hunting, job seekers are often caught off-guard by a peculiar phenomenon: ghost jobs. These are job postings that appear on websites but aren’t actively being filled by employers. Despite applying, candidates often receive no response, leaving them in limbo. But what are ghost jobs, and why do they exist?

What are Ghost Jobs?

Ghost jobs refer to vacancies posted by companies that either don’t exist anymore or are left online long after being filled. These listings, frequently found on job portals and company websites, frustrate applicants who invest time and effort into crafting applications, only to never hear back.

But ghost jobs aren't always the result of negligence. Sometimes, companies deliberately keep outdated listings active for strategic reasons.

Why Do Ghost Jobs Exist?

One of the main reasons companies maintain ghost job listings is to build a talent pool. Even if a company isn’t hiring at the moment, they keep posts live to collect résumés for future openings. This allows them to quickly onboard talent when the need arises.

Active job listings suggest growth and vibrancy within an organisation. Even if no positions are actively being filled, a company may want to project the image that it’s expanding, giving an impression of business success and stability.

Companies sometimes use ghost listings to gauge the current market rate for specific roles. By keeping listings open and reviewing incoming applications, they can better understand what potential hires expect in terms of salary and benefits.

Some departments might post jobs they don’t intend to fill immediately to justify budgets. If they can show upper management that there is interest in expanding a team, they may secure the funding for a role when it's genuinely needed down the line.

Sometimes, ghost jobs result from technical glitches or human error. Recruiters might forget to take down listings after filling a role, or automatic renewals on job portals could keep the postings alive longer than necessary.

The Impact on Job Seekers

For those actively seeking employment, ghost jobs can be demoralising. Applying to a role only to receive no communication can drain motivation and lead to job search fatigue. It also creates confusion in a labour market already fraught with challenges.

However, experts advise job seekers to diversify their strategies. Rather than relying solely on job boards, networking and direct outreach to companies can increase the chances of landing a real opportunity.

Can Anything Be Done?

To combat ghost jobs, platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed are increasingly being urged to encourage companies to update their listings regularly. Automated systems to alert employers when a posting is over a certain age could help mitigate this problem.

As for job seekers, staying vigilant and applying for positions as soon as they're posted could minimise the frustration of ghost jobs.