Job hunting can become tricky, especially when distinguishing between authentic job vacancies and scams. Recruitment can occur through two channels, application or headhunting. In both instances, there can be situations where people can take advantage of your job search. 

Here are a few tips on how to spot red flags in the recruitment process:

1. Money Red Flags

Be mindful when you are required to pay for an application process. Established companies and recruiters do not require payment for an opportunity, job offers, or an interview. 

In addition, if the company or recruiter requests confidential information before hiring such as bank account details, take this as a red flag. 

Some recruitment companies are geared towards the candidates and require payment before seeking out opportunities. However, mentioning an unusually high-payment fee for the position may be a red flag.

2. Information Red Flags

Be keen to check the URL — is it the company website? Is the wording spelled correctly? Recruitment portals usually have links on the website. If you use a third party, cross-check with the original company website to be sure.

Secondly, do your research. Many fake job opportunities tend to have unclear details about the organization. If you talk to a recruiter about a job that sounds like a great opportunity but can't find the recruiter on LinkedIn or a company website consider it a red flag.

3. Recruitment process Red Flag

The average time for a recruitment process is usually 20- 30 days depending on the position and company organization structure. 

After the initial contact, the next step is to invite you in for an interview, not an offer letter. Receiving a job offer immediately without being invited to an interview with a hiring manager or recruiter is a red flag.

Always ask the right questions to understand more about the company and the vacancy you are being contacted for by the recruiters. Do not make any decisions, especially with money, without doing your research first.

Happy Job Hunting!