Phantom Job Listings Haunt Job Seekers

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A new analysis found that over a quarter of all U.S. job listings are 'ghost jobs' - fake or inactive postings used by employers for various reasons like projecting growth, keeping candidates in reserve, or simply forgetting to remove filled positions. This practice has become increasingly widespread, making the job search process more frustrating for applicants and distorting the data used to gauge the health of the labor market.

Why it matters

The rise of 'ghost jobs' reflects a growing disconnect between digital job boards and actual hiring activity. As companies rethink recruitment strategies and job seekers grow more skeptical of listings, the trend is prompting calls for greater transparency in hiring practices to avoid wasting applicants' time and skewing important economic data.

The details

An analysis by career website ResumeUp.AI found that 27.4% of all U.S. job listings are likely ghost jobs with no intention of hiring. Employers maintain these fake postings for various reasons, such as projecting growth and momentum, keeping candidates in reserve, or simply forgetting to remove listings after positions have been filled. Beyond ghost job listings, companies also admit to 'ghosting' candidates by abruptly ending communication during the hiring process, allowing them to avoid issuing formal rejections.

• The ResumeUp.AI analysis was conducted in 2025.
• The next North Bay Job Fair hosted by Amaturo Sonoma Media Group will take place on September 15.

What’s next

If you're interested in an in-person hiring experience, our parent company Amaturo Sonoma Media Group (ASMG) hosts a biannual North Bay Job Fair. The next event will take place on Sept. 15. To register, visit northbayjobfair.com.