Real Name, Fake Interview Request: How to Spot Job Scams That Look Legit

By Heather Coleman-Voss, CPCC, CEC, CPLC

In the world of online job hunting, there's a dangerous new trend emerging - job scams that use the names of real recruiters and real companies to trick smart, qualified people.

This isn't about being careless or naive. When you're working full-time, caring for family or pets, and juggling a dozen applications, it's easy to miss the red flags—especially when scammers deliberately build just enough trust to override your instincts.

I’ve seen this scam show up multiple times in my clients' inboxes. What makes it especially dangerous is that the recruiter being impersonated is real. You can find them on LinkedIn. They're listed on the company's website. They may even have articles published or a professional presence on YouTube or TikTok.

It's almost believable. But it's 100% fake.

What Makes This Scam So Convincing?

The scammers are getting smarter. They're studying how recruiters talk, copying job titles from actual listings, and using just enough corporate polish to appear legitimate.

They might say:

• "I saw your resume on Indeed and was impressed."

• "We're hiring for a remote Graphic Designer. Part-time or full-time - your choice!"

• "I'm available Monday to Friday, 9-5. Pick a time to talk."

They include a wide pay range ($25 to $50/hour) but give you no real job description. They offer no link to apply. They don't ask for a portfolio. The grammar and overall presentation are atrocious (different sized fonts and crazy spacing). 

These scammers also use email addresses like reply-to+randomcode@wixforms.com or hrmanager@gmail.com.

Once you know what to look for, it's laughably bad. But when you are job hunting, tired, and overwhelmed, it can be dangerously easy to explain away your gut instincts.

Red Flags to Watch For:

Stolen Identity but Wrong Contact Info
The biggest red flag is when someone claims to work for a real company but emails from a suspicious domain. Real recruiters use company email addresses ending in @company.com, .org, or .gov - never WixForms, Gmail, or random third-party services.

Unrealistic Pay Ranges and Flexibility
A $25-50/hour range represents a 100% difference in compensation - no legitimate company offers ranges this wide. Similarly, real jobs specify whether they're part-time or full-time, not "either one, your choice."

Missing Job Application Basics
Professional recruiters always request your resume, cover letter, and portfolio (for creative roles). They provide links to official application portals and include actual job descriptions with specific requirements and
When someone claims to be "available anytime between 9-5, Monday through Friday," that's a major red flag. Senior recruiters and HR managers are extremely busy professionals who schedule specific appointment times, often weeks out.

Generic Language with No Personalization
Real recruiters reference specific aspects of your background, mention concrete job requirements, and use professional formatting. Scam emails are filled with buzzwords like "innovative and dedicated" without any substance.

Suspicious Links and Calls-to-Action
Legitimate recruiters direct you to official company career pages or established application systems. Scammers use "Respond Now" buttons that lead to phishing sites designed to steal your personal information.

What a Real Recruiter Email Looks Like:

• Uses a company email domain (e.g., jane@company.com)

• References an actual job listing with a link to the careers page

• Matches the exact job title found on the company website

• Includes a way to apply through a secure, official portal

• Requests resume, cover letter, and portfolio if applicable

• Shares specific scheduling links (like Calendly) with limited availability

• Has a professional email signature with contact information

• Provides concrete details about the role and requirements

If You Fell For It - You're Not Alone

These scams are targeting job seekers who are hopeful, stressed, financially strained, and often under-slept. That means nearly everyone in the middle of a long search.

When my clients forward me these messages and emails, it's because they suspect something is wrong. And they are right. Scammers are getting more manipulative and strategic in their tactics. They're exploiting the vulnerability that comes with job hunting - the desire to find that "dream job" and move your career forward.

You deserve safety and clarity in your job hunt—not predators who profit from your hope.

Protect Yourself and Others

If you receive an email from a recruiter that seems suspicious or makes you question its validity, look them up on LinkedIn and contact them directly through the platform or their official company website. Real recruiters won't mind the extra verification step.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off - even if you can't pinpoint exactly what - take time to investigate before responding.

Share your experiences. When you encounter these scams, warn others in your network. We can help protect other job seekers through awareness and shared experience.

Share This

If you know someone job searching, especially someone new to job search or returning after time away, please share this with them. And remember, if you've been targeted and fell for the scam, you’re not the first person this has happened to and you won’t be the last. That’s why awareness matters. The more people who recognize these tactics, the less effective they become.

Let's keep your energy focused on real opportunities that deserve your time and energy. If you’ve experienced something similar and want to talk through it - or need help navigating the job search and moving forward in your career - I have a few client spaces available for the summer. I’m here.

Ready to transform those limiting beliefs into stepping stones for growth? Your inner critic doesn't have to have the last word. Take the first step toward the career and life you deserve by scheduling a free Discovery Call at www.careersavvycoaching.com. Together, we'll explore your journey, discuss my coaching packages and costs, and create a path forward that honors both who you are and who you're becoming.