Suspicious Job Descriptions: 7 Red Flags To Help New Graduates

Forbes

26-06-2025

Experts warn new graduates to be vigilant about suspicious job descriptions that sound too good to ... More be true.
Congratulations to the 2025 graduates. Many of you probably have started hunting for jobs. But have you read a job description and thought, 'This sounds too good to be true?' Chances are you're not wrong and that you might've just spotted a red flag. Research shows that 40% of companies posted a fake job listing this year, and three in ten currently have active fake listings. So, if you're a job seeker, experts are warning you to keep an eye out for suspicious job descriptions.
Seven Red Flags Of Suspicious Job Descriptions
The 2025 graduating class is the largest ever, but according to Checkr, the 2025 job search process is also more complex and challenging than ever. Job hunters are navigating a hiring landscape filled with uncertainty, frustration and a growing lack of trust in employers. And job seekers and employers are bending the rules to get ahead.
Fake job postings are fueling this lack of trust, and companies are posting them to alleviate employee workload concerns and to feign company growth. Hiring managers say fake job postings lead to boosted revenue, morale and productivity, and 70% of managers say they believe it's morally acceptable to post fake jobs. Fortunately, there are ways to recognize red flags that indicate suspicious job descriptions.
Experts emphasize before you apply to a company that you research their trajectory, market position and customer pain points. If you have time, it's also important to research the organization's history and key milestones as well as when they've taken the time to test out their products and services firsthand.
While this can give you most of the information you need to asses your interest and fit with a company, fake job descriptions can still mislead you. For example, Glassdoor has identified one unhealthy trend to watch out for that it calls 'the octo-hire'--the overextended, over-stressed employee, juggling the workload of eight roles with limited time, energy and resources that inevitably lead to burnout.
Certified career coach, Amanda Augustine at resume.ai, told me by email that in real estate, employers often rely on a familiar set of phrases to market their job openings. By the same token, it's up to new graduates, scanning job descriptions and prepping applications, to read between the lines of phrases like 'fast-paced environment''or 'we're like a family,' embedded in the posts.
After analyzing hundreds of comments, she and her team have uncovered patterns, reflecting common, shared frustrations many job seekers face. What do some job descriptions really signify? And how can job seekers spot red flags to decipher the responsibilities and expectations often hidden between the lines.
1. 'Fast-paced environment.' Augustine says this term is used to describe a dynamic workplace where employees are expected to keep up with rapid changes. She adds that working under pressure to meet deadlines, juggling multiple tasks at once and constantly adjusting to shifting priorities are typically part of the deal.
2. 'We work hard and play hard.' This line is often used to promote a fun, high-energy culture, but it can be a red flag, according to Augustine. 'It typically suggests long working hours, an expectation to attend social events outside of work and blurred boundaries between professional and personal life.'
3. 'Self-starter who can take initiative.' If you read between the lines, she points out that this ad usually indicates the organization expects you to hit the ground running with little guidance or training. 'It might be a sign of a lack of organization, support or clearly defined responsibilities,' Augustine notes. 'While being proactive is a valuable trait, this phrase can also imply that you will be left to figure things out by yourself, which can be daunting, particularly in a new or unclear role.'
4. 'We're like a family.' Augustine explains that this phrase is meant to suggest a collaborative, supportive work environment, but it can also be a warning sign that the company expects employees to go above and beyond without additional pay or clear boundaries. 'This often means blurred lines between work and personal life, with unspoken pressure to prioritize the company over yourself.'
5. 'Unlimited earning potential.' She agrees that this phrase sounds appealing, but it often means the job is heavily commission-based or dependent on bonuses rather than a guaranteed salary and can signal unstable income, where only top performers earn well while others may struggle to make a livable wage.
6. 'Entry-level' (but requires experience). Augustine cautions that this is a common red flag that suggests unrealistic job expectations. 'It often means the company wants candidates to take on advanced responsibilities without offering the training, support, or compensation usually associated with higher-level roles. This can make it difficult for true beginners to succeed.'
7. 'Passionate about the job.' This is sometimes code for: We can't offer much pay or work-life balance, but we're hoping your love for the work will make up for it. 'Employers may use this phrase to justify long hours, vague boundaries or asking you to go above and beyond your job description without extra support or compensation. Passion is great, but it shouldn't come at the expense of fair treatment,' Augustine warns.
How New Graduates Can Approach Suspicious Job Descriptions Critically
If you find one or more of the phrases and decide to go for an interview, be sure to ask for clarification of what the phrase really means. During the job interview, it's important to remember that you need to do more than just passively answer the interviewer's questions and present your qualifications. Recruiters are impressed with candidates who show genuine interest in the position by asking thoughtful questions because it demonstrates your interest.
Augustine admits that the seven phrases aren't always deal breakers, but they are signals to dig deeper. She suggests that watching for suspicious job descriptions is part of your homework. 'Review the company's website and social channels, read employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor or Comparably, and tap into your alumni network to get an insider's perspective,' she concludes." And remember, the interview goes both ways. You're not just there to impress; you're also there to ask questions and assess if the company culture and role are truly the right fit for you.'