It is not surprising that scams are popping up all over. They are trying to feed on the desperation of job seekers. But, you don’t have to fall prey. Just use some good old common sense.
Rule Number One:
If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Job searching is hard work. Sure you could pay for someone to do the work for you, is that worth investing your hard earned money?
Here are some things to watch out for:
- Work-at-home scams: Careerealism recommends checking out WorkAtHomeCareers.com‘s helpful information to learn more about the real work-at-home jobs.
- Government jobs and test preparation. Don’t pay money for a package of stuff on how to prepare to take civil service exams or how to find government jobs. Government jobs are listed. www.usajobs.gov. You will also find civil service jobs listed on your state, county and sometimes city/town websites.
- Job placement/search firm scams asking you to pay thousands for “job leads” and setting up interviews and networking meetings. These are popping up all over.
Rule Number Two:
Limit the amount of personal information you put on-line. If you post your resume on job boards, there’s probably no need to include your home mailing address. When was the last time you received a letter asking for an interview?
- Driver’s license numbers and bank account numbers are seldom required by legitimate employers. Do not email this information to others.
- Social Security numbers are still being asked for on some job applications. If it is a job you are truly interested in, consider calling the employer and politely asking if this information can be provided later in the process.
You can always check with the Better Business Bureau before applying to the companies you are questioning.
If you are looking for additional insight on how to keep your on-line search safe, Careerbuilder has a special investigation group monitoring scams. If you suspect a scam, report it to csi@careerbuilder.com!
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.