A recent survey by ResumeBuilder.com has highlighted a concerning trend in the job market: the prevalence of fake job listings.
The survey, which polled 649 hiring managers, found that 40% of companies have posted fake job listings in the past year. This practice, seen by some as a strategy to boost morale and productivity, also raises significant ethical questions.
The survey reveals that three in 10 companies currently have active fake job listings. The primary reasons cited for this tactic include alleviating employee workload concerns and giving the impression of company growth.
According to ResumeBuilder.com’s Chief Career Advisor Stacie Haller, these practices are deceptive and undermine organizational trust.
“It’s a concerning scenario, particularly when these misleading postings originate from HR departments — the very entities entrusted with shaping accurate perceptions of their organizations,” Haller said. “Whether it’s to create an illusion of company expansion or to foster a sense of replaceability among employees, such practices are not acceptable.”
Survey findings and implications
Key findings from the survey indicate that fake job postings are used to make companies appear open to external talent, suggest company growth, and alleviate employee workload concerns. Notably, 63% of hiring managers said their company used fake job postings to create the impression that the company was expanding, and 62% believed it made employees feel replaceable.
Despite the ethical concerns, many hiring managers believe that fake job postings have had positive impacts on their companies. According to the survey:
- 68% reported a positive impact on revenue
- 65% saw improved employee morale
- 77% noted increased productivity
However, Haller emphasized the negative long-term effects of such practices. “Employees deserve transparency about the companies they dedicate their time to, rather than being led astray by false representations. Any tactic aimed at undermining employees’ sense of value and security is deplorable,” she said.
Ethical considerations and industry impact
The survey also revealed that 70% of hiring managers view posting fake job listings as morally acceptable, with 43% believing it is definitely acceptable and 27% considering it probably acceptable. Despite this, two-thirds of these hiring managers reported that stakeholders, including employees and applicants, eventually discovered the truth behind the fake listings.
This discovery can lead to significant reputational damage for companies. Haller noted, “The frustration candidates experience due to fake job postings exacerbates the already stressful job search process. Companies engaging in this practice not only tarnish their reputation but also sabotage their long-term prospects.”
As companies face increasing scrutiny, there is hope that such unethical practices will diminish. Highlighting these issues is seen as a step toward a more transparent and equitable hiring process.
Methodology
The survey, conducted by Pollfish on behalf of ResumeBuilder.com, was launched on May 22, 2024. It included 649 hiring managers from companies with more than 10 employees, ensuring a diverse and representative sample. Respondents were over 25 years old, had a household income of at least $75,000, and held a manager-level role or higher.