How to spot a fake job posting
Real employers never ask you to pay to get a job.
Real employers never ask you to pay to get a job, buy your own equipment up front, or deposit a check and send part of the money back. Be careful with jobs that offer high pay for little work, hire you without an interview, or only talk to you over text or a messaging app.
Look up the company yourself instead of using links in a message, and never give your Social Security number or bank details until you've been offered the job in writing. If something feels off, report it to the FTC.
Tips to get hired faster
Apply within the first few days a job is posted.
Apply early
Many hiring managers look at the first batch of applications and move fast. Searching jobs posted in the last few days helps you get in early.
Match the job post
Use a few of the same words from the job description in your resume, like the skills and tools they ask for. Many companies sort applications with software that looks for them.
Follow up
A short, friendly email or call a few days after you apply helps you stand out, especially at local businesses.
Sources
2 sources
Last checked October 2026.
- Federal Trade Commission · Job scams
- CareerOneStop · U.S. Department of Labor job search and training