Be Careful Out There!

So, BEFORE you apply for a job:

1. Google the employer’s name.

Is there a Google map with a flag at the employer’s street address location?

No? Be careful.

Is there a Website for this employer?

No? Be VERY careful.

Is there a local Yellow Pages directory (or other business directory) listing for this employer.

No? Not a good sign.

Does the Website have concret contact information (physical address, city, state, non-800 phone number)?

No? Not a good sign. Either they are ignorant or they are hiding something. You need to know where they are located, even if you are working from home, so that you can contact them if you have any problems or questions.

2. Google the recruiter or contact name on the job posting.

If the only “contact” information for the employer is a form for you to complete or an email address, be leary of them.

The job seems to be for Acme Widget Company, but the contact e-mail address for your resume is AcmeWidgetHR@hotmail.com.  Be very careful – this is not a good sign.  If the posting is legitimate, the recruiter’s email address should be at the domain name of the employer or the recruitment company.  Anyone can get a hotmail.com, yahoo.com, or gmail.com address, and no one checks to see that there is any reality to the name chosen.

3.  Does it seem like a sensible job?

A position without any requirements is not a real job. Be suspicious of jobs with no skills or experience required. Real employers can only afford to pay people to do real work. Ask yourself if a reasonable person would hire someone to do that job?

Keep your “shields up” as Captain Kirk suggested many years ago.  Still good advice, coming back from the future.