Last Updated: Aug 30, 2013
Here’s a true story from a friend (though the name has been changed for privacy’s sake). Jessica was searching for a job on the Internet when she stumbled upon a job opportunity that sounded amazing. The company was currently hiring in the city where she wanted to live and it was offering great pay for an entry-level position, so Jessica applied. Then, she found another similar job and applied to that one as well. Soon after, Jessica received an e-mail from both separate companies asking her to come in for interviews at the end of the week. She accepted, planned the drive, and scoped out a hotel.
Hours before leaving, Jessica was using Google to find out some more information on the companies to have some talking points for the interviews, and she didn’t like what she was seeing: the organizations looked fake! Upon further investigation, Jessica found out that neither of them were what they claimed to be. The realization was quite a letdown, but this type of thing isn’t uncommon. Here’s how to avoid a similar situation:
Sound too good to be true? It probably is
I’m not saying that your first job can’t be amazing, because it can and should be! However, if the job posting says that you’ll make $200,000 a year and only have to work twice a week, I’d be a bit hesitant. Know what to expect in job postings and be wary if it all sounds too good.
Use the Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau provides reviews on various companies. You can read up on the companies to which you are applying, read complaints, and find if they are BBB accredited. Keep in mind that sometimes good companies are not BBB accredited. It’s not a requirement for all respectable businesses to be BBB accredited, so don’t use that as your only requirement as to whether or not the company is reputable.
Search, search, search
Use Google to do some research on the company. Here are some positive and negative things to look out for:
Good signs:
- There’s an adequate website with a detailed “about” section, employee biographies, history, mission, and clientele (if applicable)
- Media coverage of the company or relevant press releases
- People have posted good reviews
Bad signs:
- Information on the company is vague or nonexistent
- The word “scam” is coming up often
- An amateur website, a flashy website, or no website at all
Know other warning signs
What else should you watch out for? For one thing, you should never have to pay for a job. They are hiring and paying you, and there is no reason you should have to fork over money. Also, don’t let your excitement blind you. It’s easy to get caught up, but be choosy; don’t apply anywhere and everywhere. Lastly, realize that these scam companies can show up on any job sites, even those you normally trust.
My overall advice for the job search is to do your company research before applying to any position. It takes some time, but it’s worth the effort!
