Craigslist Job Scams
Scams to look out for!
Job hunters be aware of the Craigslist job postings! As in a process of finding jobs myself, I have come to a conclusion that not every job posting is what it may seem. Some of these postings look too good to be true, I'm talking about the ones that are specifically geared toward writing, reviewing, data entry, do it out of your home office type deals, and local companies that might be hiring in your area. True, there are some home business opportunities that might actually be legitimate, but if you are a freelance writer like myself, a mom seeking at home work, or a recent college grad in need of extra cash (while searching for a fulltime job) some of these postings aren't the answer.
You need to do a check before you send materials, like your resume, letters of recommendation, your phone numbers and address, and writing samples. These items are your valued information -- especially your contact information and your writing samples. These items can be taken and used for web material. The rising need for web material is becoming an enormous phenomenon. There are small companies out there that have a webpage (or some that claim to have a website) that get the gullible consumer to pay money to get started their work from home. I'm telling you - this is a scam! Now, some of us might say hey, no shit, it's a scam, but when you are out of work, you are almost willing to do whatever it takes to get a job.
Here are some pointers to avoid issues when viewing Craigslist (or any job posting site for that matter) that might have a wonderful opportunity for you, that might not really be so wonderful. First of all, when searching, home in on exactly the area or field you want, it gets less frustrating this way. Do a strategic search on your job area, location, etc. Then when you pull up the job ad be sure to locate an actual website, e-mail address, fax or phone number, and company name on that particular posting. Now, granted some jobs, like government contractors might not have their name posted, due to the high level of inquires they might get - but these should still have an e-mail or legitimate mailing address.
If you don't see an E-mail and all you get is the Craigslist E-mail (ex: job-3847290239@Craigslist.org) I wouldn't send my information. To me, this doesn't seem like a smart way for a company seeking an asset to show themselves to the public. To me, this says, "We are seeking any moron that we can pay minimum wage to." Or "We want you to be our slave in our small company so we can make all the money." Basically, if the company wants you to learn about their company before applying, then they would actually have the company information readily available to you. Without this critical information it also means the company probably needs a temporary person. Who would want to work for a company or organization that's not informative?
If you are a serious job hunter, seeking employment that will take you somewhere, I think these tips should be helpful to you. You want a career? Then you must be selective and make sure all essential information is available on an ad before applying. Why should you send your information if the company won't supply theirs?
