Job Seekers, Don’t Fall for “Perfect Job” Messages

ilenerein
Jun 17
5 min read

ILENE REIN | Executive Recruiter & Job Search Strategist

We've all been there.

You get a message that says, “You’re perfect for this job!”

Naturally, you reply, excitement brewing.

And then… silence. Crickets.

What’s actually going on behind the scenes when this happens to you?

Well, I’m here to break it all down for you and give you the tools to protect yourself during your job search.

I am an Executive Recruiter and Job Search Strategist with Pounding Pavement 101. I don’t just talk about job searching—I live it. Occasionally, I put myself into the job seeker’s shoes by applying for positions, just to understand what it feels like and to improve my coaching program. Trust me, I’ve seen the awkwardness and frustrations that many of you face firsthand.

But nothing frustrates me more than bad recruiting tactics—and it’s time we talk about it.

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What’s Really Happening When You Get No Response?

When a recruiter or company contacts you out of nowhere and doesn’t follow through, a few things could be happening:

The Blanket Email Blast Approach

Some recruiters send mass emails or messages to anyone with a pulse (okay, not literally, but you get the point). They’re not personal, and sometimes there’s not even a real job behind the message. It might be for a cattle-call scenario where they hire tons of people, give them basic instructions, and hope a few figure things out on their own. (Not exactly inspiring, right?)

Poor Recruiting Practices

Bad recruiters make zero effort to qualify candidates before reaching out. They don’t review your background or consider if the role is a fit. They literally cast a huge net, hoping to catch a fish or two. Good recruiters like me, and there are many others out there, take the time to assess your experience and present roles that are genuinely aligned with your skills and goals. We are contacting the career professional because we have a position that we feel would be of interest to you.

Possible Scammers

Yes, scams are out there, and they’ve become increasingly sophisticated. If someone starts asking you to “confirm” personal information—like your location, Social Security number, or bank details—run for the hills. No legitimate process requires this upfront. Scammers prey on job seekers who are eager to land the next opportunity, and the results can be devastating.

What Does Good Recruiting Look Like?

Good recruiters don’t play games.

We understand that for every resume, there’s a person behind it—someone with aspirations, bills to pay, and real potential.

When I reach out to candidates, it’s intentional and respectful.

You deserve someone who values your time, acknowledges your worth, and communicates clearly throughout the process.

If someone ghosts you after reaching out first, that's on them. Seriously, who does that? It’s not about you—it’s just a big flashing sign of their (lack of) professionalism. Honestly, it says way more about them than it ever could about you.

Protect Yourself During Your Job Search

Here’s how you can avoid the pitfalls of sketchy recruiting and stay in control of your job search:

Don’t Give Away Personal Information

Never, and I mean never, share sensitive info (for example: Social Security number or bank account) until you’re at the final stages of hiring and you know the process is legitimate.

Research the Recruiter and Company

Look them up on LinkedIn. Check their website. Do their messages or emails align with a real opportunity? If anything feels off, trust your gut.

Set Boundaries

If someone skips proper channels (like sending you unsolicited texts), proceed cautiously. Respectable recruiters will use professional methods—email, LinkedIn, etc.—not your private phone number out of nowhere.

Use Resources That Work

I’ve compiled tons of actionable strategies to protect you and help you streamline your job search on my website. Watch my free job search training. It’s a game-changer, and yes, it’s completely free. Why wouldn’t you go check it out?

CLICK IMAGE TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY

You’re the Asset—Own It

Job searching is a two-way street.

While companies may be looking to fill a position, you bring the skills and expertise they need.

Your time and talents are valuable, so approach your search with intention.

Be selective, stay proactive, and never settle for less than you deserve.

If you’re feeling stuck or simply want to talk about your job search, I’m here to help. Schedule a session with me to evaluate your strategies and figure out what’s working—and what isn’t. Together, we can get you on a path to securing that dream job, and we’ll do it the right way.

To all Recruiters reading this: DO BETTER!

Careers and lives are not a game, and no one appreciates being left in the dark.

It's time to set a higher standard for how we treat candidates during the recruitment process.

Let's raise the bar together.

Now, go crush your job search!

And, don’t forget to follow me here so you can stay updated with more tips and strategies for landing your next role.

Ilene Rein

Job Search Strategist & Executive Recruiter

Pounding Pavement 101

Schedule a Job Search Consultation to strategize about your job search and how to get hired for your dream job in record time.

Searching for a job can feel overwhelming, and it's easy to fall into common pitfalls that hold you back from landing your dream role. Consider working with a professional expert Job Search Strategist to give you a competitive edge.

Schedule a consultation on my calendar to discuss your unique job search situation and learn how I can help you rise above your competition, become the candidate of choice, and secure employment quickly.

Together, we'll develop a tailored strategy to showcase your strengths and get you hired in record time.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION: https://www.poundingpavement101.com
EXPERT JOB SEARCHING ADVICE: https://www.poundingpavement101.com
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DETAILED STATISTICS of the Pounding Pavement 101 Foolproof, Job-Getting, Career-Building System: https://www.poundingpavement101.com/

Ilene Rein is an Executive Recruiter and Job Search Strategist.

Ilene teaches job seekers exactly how to market themselves with laser precision to employers using inside secrets from the Recruiter's perspective, exponentially increasing their chances of getting noticed and hired rapidly!

Smart, Ambitious, Successful Job Seekers who landed their dream jobs in record time using the Pounding Pavement 101 Foolproof, Job-Getting, Career-Building System.

You can be one of them too!

The Ultimate #1 Plan To Speed Up Your Job Search And Get Hired Rapidly

Job Seekers, Don’t Fall for “Perfect Job” Messages

🔴 SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR EXPERT JOB SEARCHING STRATEGIES TO GET YOU HIRED RAPIDLY IN YOUR DREAM JOB:

What’s Really Happening When You Get No Response?

What Does Good Recruiting Look Like?

Protect Yourself During Your Job Search

You’re the Asset—Own It

To all Recruiters reading this: DO BETTER!

Schedule a Job Search Consultation to strategize about your job search and how to get hired for your dream job in record time.

Smart, Ambitious, Successful Job Seekers who landed their dream jobs in record time using the Pounding Pavement 101 Foolproof, Job-Getting, Career-Building System.

You can be one of them too!

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