It is so sad to think that, in this economy with people as desperate as they are to find work and generate more income, that anyone would want to take advantage of that and bring the unemployed even more misfortune. Unfortunately, the fact that the amount of job seekers is so high means that the amount of job scams is also high. While many would think they have enough good sense to figure out if a job ad or offer is a scam, some of the smartest people can be victims. The people that create these scams are skilled con-artists that know exactly what to say to reel hopeful job-seekers in.
Not only do job-seekers not want to fall victim to these scams (which could lead to possible financial and legal problems), they shouldn’t have to waste their valuable time even reading or applying for jobs that won’t lead to anything legitimate, especially when they have plenty of good opportunities out there as well. The key is to be able to easily identify the true from the false. Below are some telltale signs to be able to spot a job scam:
1. The Job Requires You to Pay Money Out of Your Own Pocket
No authentic employer would require you to pay anything in order to work there, and this includes training and supply fees. If you are asked for bank account, credit or any other personal information right off the bat, something is fishy. Also, a key warning sign of a definite scam is if there is any mention of having to wire money to the prospective employer. Some jobs will require you to pay some money up front for training, like insurance jobs. However, just make sure that you are working with a reputable company if you decide to go in this direction.
2. The Position and Pay for the Job Seem Too Good to be True
If you are being offered an unrealistically high starting salary with no experience required or are promised a promotion to “manager” or “owner” within a month, chances are there is something this employer is not telling you. The whole “fast cash” concept is attractive to many struggling in this economy but unfortunately it is rarely a reality
3. If a Supposed Employer for a Job You Have not Applied for Contacts you Repeatedly
Some of the companies running these scams farm for people and you will receive vague job descriptions often repeatedly. Sometimes these job descriptions mention the company being located overseas, and may come from a suspicious-looking e-mail address. If you do not recall applying for this job, proceed with caution.
4. The Company Website Leaves More to Be Desired
If you get a bad feeling about a certain job opportunity, check out the company website. If the company does not have one or if the website they do have gives little detail about what the company does and lacks legitimate contact details, chances are you are about to walk into a scam.
Being aware during your job search will prevent you from making a huge mistake. Millions of have fallen victim to these scams. Not only do they lose out on large sums of money, but there is also no job waiting for them after the ordeal. Be careful, because it could easily happen to you!
Jessica Cody
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