There are a lot of people out there looking for a job. We need to make ends meet and we need the money. That is why it gets our hearts racing when we see a work from home job opportunity, especially if it advertises a way to make thousands of dollars from the comfort of our own home.
The problem is, however, that there are a host of scams out there. Here are a few signs that the job opportunity you’ve been offered might be a scam:
1. You need to pay to get the job.
Oh nelly, this is the easiest way to spot a scam. If you have to pay for the job opportunity, run away. Usually the scammer asks you to pay for training materials up front with a money order, wire transfer, or other hard to trace money transaction. Once you pay, however, you’ll never hear from that person again. If you do, they will probably tell you additional fee’s must be paid or that they never received the first payment in the first place.
2. You need to pay someone else.
We have seen situations where the scam involves making the victim pay someone else, not necessarily the ’employer’, for items such as training materials or certifications. Again, let’s just assume that any time you have to ‘pay’ to get a job – there is a good chance it is a scam.
3. You need to pay for a website.
Ok, are we seeing the pattern here? This time, the ’employer’ promises you a great work from home opportunity with your very own website. However, you have to pay a small start up fee for the website. Need I say more?
4. You are pressured to take the job.
The ’employer’ pressures you to sign up and agree to their contract immediately. Listen, don’t feel be pressured into a potential job. If you don’t feel comfortable, walk away!
5. You’re approached online – not professionally.
Many users have complained about meeting someone online or through a chat where the person on the other side offers them a job. The ’employer’ asks for personal information or to be paid up front (surprise). Remember, most respected and legitimate companies find prospective applicants through the big resume or job websites. Don’t get fooled by a smoother talker and stick to the well known job websites out there.
The takeaway here is, use common sense!
If there is something inside of you that questions the legitimacy of the company or job, do your homework! Use the BBB and other investigative tools to research the company that contacted you to see if it truly is a dream job or just a dream.
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