Addressing the Rise of ‘Ghost Jobs’: Are Current Efforts Enough?
The phenomenon of “ghost jobs” has emerged as a significant concern for job seekers worldwide. These positions are advertised but often do not exist, leaving many frustrated and disheartened. A recent study in the UK revealed that 34% of job vacancies listed were not genuine, while a larger survey across the US, UK, and Germany found that up to 22% of online listings lacked a legitimate hiring intent.
Ghost Jobs and Their Impact
The implications of ghost jobs extend beyond mere inconvenience. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 7.2 million job openings in August, yet only 5.1 million hires were made. This disconnect has raised questions about the motivations behind such misleading advertisements.
Legislative Efforts in the US
Eric Thompson, a tech professional with over 20 years of experience, has become a prominent advocate against ghost jobs after he faced difficulties finding employment. He established a working group aiming to legislate against ghost job postings. His proposed legislation, known as The Truth in Job Advertising & Accountability Act, advocates for:
- Expiration dates for job listings
- Auditable hiring records
- Penalties for misleading job advertisements
Thompson has garnered over 50,000 signatures on his petition, with many supporters sharing personal stories of how ghost jobs have affected their mental health.
Developments in Canada
Ontario is taking a proactive stance by mandating companies to clarify whether job vacancies are genuine starting January 1. Moreover, companies with over 25 employees must respond to interviewed applicants within 45 days, addressing another issue known as “ghosting.” However, enforcement remains a concern among experts.
The Situation in the UK
As of now, no legal measures exist in the UK to address ghost jobs, and many candidates feel neglected. A jobseeker from Leicester expressed frustration over the lack of responses from companies, stating that the job market’s current state is disheartening.
Expert Insights
Jasmine Escalera, a career coach in Miami, highlights that ghost jobs contribute to a false perception of job market health. Companies engage in this practice for various reasons, such as creating talent pools and inflating growth statistics. This distortion can have serious policy implications, hindering governments’ ability to support job seekers effectively.
Advice for Job Seekers
To avoid falling into the ghost job trap, job seekers are encouraged to network directly with hiring managers. Clear communication with current employees can indicate whether a position is legitimate. Furthermore, applicants should be vigilant about common red flags:
- Repeated postings for the same job
- Long durations of open job listings
Being informed and proactive can help candidates navigate a market increasingly affected by ghost jobs.
