5 Signals the Job is a Scam

After spending countless hours investigating open positions and conducting job searches online, some job seekers are roped into job scams. Save yourself time and frustration by noting the top five signals that indicate a company might be out to scam you.

1. Immediate Job Offer

As exciting as it may sound to receive a job offer at the start of an interview, job seekers should be leery, as this practice is often associated with job scams. Although you might have dazzled the interviewer with your skills and qualifications, a reputable company takes time to consider all applicants and thoroughly vet potential employees before making an offer.

2. Impersonal Interviews

Technology has enhanced the way companies interview candidates. Instead of traveling around the country to meet face to face with recruiters, many employers opt to conduct interviews using webcams, FaceTime or Skype. While there's nothing wrong with this practice, you should be leery of a recruiter who only wants to conduct an interview using electronic methods, since this is common with job scams. You need time face to face with a potential employer to gauge whether or not the company is a good fit, and employers should desire the same.

3. Lack of Focus on Your Qualifications

Let's face it: your qualifications and skills should monopolize the interview. Companies enacting job scams are less likely to ask detailed questions about your skills and are highly likely to rush through the meeting. A reputable hiring manager should be interested in what you have to offer and is eager to discuss ways in which your skills can positively impact the company.

4. The Mysterious Company

Job scams thrive on providing vague information to job seekers. An individual representing the firm should divulge the company name and information about the duties of the job. He should also be willing to discuss future opportunities and the company culture. You need this information to conduct background research on the firm and better prepare yourself for the interview during your job search. If the hiring manager is unwilling to even name the company, it is likely he is attempting to scam you.

5. The Employee 'Investment'

Your financial future is important when negotiating salary and considering potential positions. However, you should not have to shell out any cash or invest in the company to obtain employment. Hiring managers or recruiters that require you to pay a fee to apply for a job or secure employment are likely to take your money and run.

Unfortunately, job scams are prevalent in all industries. As a job seeker, avoid getting sucked into a scam by thoroughly researching the firm and asking questions about the company's success and operations. Avoid the temptation to blindly reveal personal information about yourself that can be used to harm you personally, professionally or financially.

Photo Courtesy of Coko Lads at Flickr.com