Tips and Pointers for Avoiding a Job Scammer

In these tough economic times, many so called employers are trying to take advantage of those seeking employment. Many of these employers advertise on sites on the internet. At first glance, they look official. Sometimes, they even use the names of well know companies. How can someone catch a scammer versus a real job ad? Here are a few tips and pointers.

1. First of all, if the phone number listed is a different area code or an unknown prefix. This might single that they are calling from home on a cell or from another area code. Most reputable companies have local or 800 numbers.

2. Often, these scammer employers will have you meet them at another place of business or at a hotel. Sometimes, there are many people at once in a conference room. As most people know, a legitimate job interview usually takes place in a boring board room with two or more professionals asking you job related questions.

3. Many job scammers are merely looking for a warm body to get a check or money from. Your interview with a job scammer will be very basic and may include more personal information than actual legitimate job questions.

4. Watch for key words such as, "get others to work under you," "only a small fee to get started," or "some investment required." These are clues that you might be interviewing with a job scammer.

5. If the prospective employer asks for money or a check, run for the door. If they state that you will be over a team and get paid for their work, leave. This is a pyramid scheme and illegal.

If you happen to run into a job scammer, the best thing to do is call your local police department and let them know. Also, you can contact the Better Business Bureau and report the job scammer. Hopefully, you can stop someone else desperate for a job from being scammed.

It is sad that people prey on others during difficult times. By knowing a few pointers, you can avoid being the victim of a job scammer. With proper research and perseverance, a legitimate job can be yours.