How recruiters spot fake, deceptive job applicants, with Dani Tepedjiyska

From People Who Read People: A Behavior and Psychology Podcast by Zachary Elwood

May 15, 2026 · 58 min

About this episode

Dani Tepedjiyska discusses the challenges recruiters face with deceptive job applicants and the impact of AI on hiring practices.

What if some job applicants aren’t actually trying to get jobs — but are instead trying to infiltrate companies? Dani Tepedjiyska, who works with the recruitment firm Michael Page, describes a strange and growing world of fake resumes, organized applicant networks, AI-assisted interviews, and suspicious staffing firms that may be helping fraudulent actors gain access to banks and other financial institutions. We talk about the real-world signs she’s seen while interviewing deceptive candidates — from people secretly receiving answers during interviews to applicants who suddenly crack under simple follow-up questions. We also explore how AI tools are making this kind of fraud much easier, why remote work creates new vulnerabilities, and how some infiltrators may be playing a very long game. Along the way, Dani shares practical insights for job seekers about how recruiters analyze applicant resumes and behavior, and tips on optimal LinkedIn strategies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Zachary Elwood

Guest: Dani Tepedjiyska

Topics covered

job recruitment
deceptive applicants
fake resumes
AI in hiring
remote work vulnerabilities
LinkedIn strategies

Keywords

job applicants
fraudulent resumes
interview techniques
AI interviews
recruitment strategies

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Michael Page