Tips On Avoiding Employment Scams

If you’re looking for a job, you may see ads for firms that promise results. Unfortunately, some firms may misrepresent their services, promote outdated or fictitious job offerings, or charge high fees in advance for services that may not lead to a job.

Consumer protection agencies, says scammers advertise jobs exactly where legitimate employers do—on popular Web sites, in the classifieds and even on TV. The ads sound promising, whether it’s for hourly work or an executive-level job. But ads placed by scammers come with a twist: You have to pay—and then, there’s no job.

Many con artists are good at what they do. They can sound very convincing, especially when your defenses are down. They may say they have a job waiting for you…or they might guarantee to place you in a job. But you can’t believe the promises—even when you want to. Legitimate companies won’t guarantee you a job.

WE urge job seekers to be aware of the red flags that may signal a job scam:

• If an employer or employment-service firm wants you to pay—even if it says it’s for certification, training materials or for its expenses placing you with a company — don’t do business with it. Legitimate employers and firms don’t ask you to pay for the promise of a job.