Job Hunting
Job hunting is stressful. Adding to this pressure is the fact that it is taking more time for people to find new employment than in the past. The economy and job market have slowed down tremendously and that is causing job-seekers to look at any and all jobs- ones that they normally might not have considered. In the rush to find a new position, many people are being scammed by companies which guarantee employment but charge very high fees for their services.
Before spending money or taking time to fill out placement contracts, take some time to research the companies. The following suggestions can save you time, money, and disappointment in the long run.
- Say "no" to any company which guarantees it will find you a job. There are no guarantees in the business world.
- Be wary of employment-service firms that charge "upfront". Some will promise you a refund if they're not successful, but this very rarely happens. Think carefully before handing over money to anyone.
- Make sure you read and thoroughly understand any contract before you sign it. Know what the firm will do for you and what they expect you to do. If oral promises have been made, make sure they are added in writing to the contract. Oral promises mean nothing once you have signed a legal contract. If the company refuses to put things in writing, consider walking away.
- Take as much time as you need to read over the contract. Don't succumb to high-pressure sales tactics. Scam businesses know that many people have been looking for work for a long time and may be in desperate financial straits- they will try to get you to sign on the dotted line as fast as possible.
- If a company doesn't want to answer your questions or gives vague answers, think twice about using their services. Legitimate businesses should be forthright and willing to give you the information you need.
- If the employment service mentions a company about a possible job, check with that business directly to see if they are actually hiring.
- Don't trust firms that say they have access to "previously undisclosed" federal government jobs. All federal positions are posted on the website www.usajobs.gov which is readily available to the general public.
To find out more, contact your state Attorney General's office and the Better Business Bureau.
