Quick Career Tips

Be Cautious- Not All Jobs are what they Appear!Tips for avoiding scams In your search.

Watch for clues that can help you uncover and recognize too good job to be true job opportuities that are tip really scams. In today's environment, we have to play detective and do a due diligence to confirm the true opportunities in the market place.

• Paying  money up front for any reason such as training fees, sample kits and application processing costs.
• Poor grammar, spelling or punctuation. Many times  scams are foreign and out the region  and English is not primary language.
• A free email address such as Yahoo,AOL, Gmail or Hotmail. Most organizations have their company name in the email. Google and check website of the employer to confirm the site is professsional, how long in business, client names, physical locations, and working phone numbers.
• Never provide your SSN , bank account or driver's license number. Real companies do not ask for these up front or in an email. Any jobs or investments that involve money orders, wire transfers and your bank account number are scams.
• If posting does not give specifc qualifications or duties of the job description, ask questions. If you are told you have   the job without an in- person or phone interview, be cautious.
• Auto-responder emails. Internet marketers use auto responses that are pre-programmed to delivered based on specific actions.
• Be aware; be safe.  if it is too good to be true, it is!
• Consult Better Business Councils, Chambers of Commerce, and law enforcement regarding employers you may not be aware of or can not find information.
• Just because you found the job lead from a newspaper classified or well know on line job board does not mean it is on the level.

Interview checklist:

• Research Company & position prior to interview appointment. Learn about the company & the job you are applying for.
• Know your self and your skills.
• Practice: Arrange for a mock interview in the Career Center or practice with a friend or family member. Or by yourself in front of a mirror.
• Anticipate questions and showcase your skills.
• Be on time and prepared. Arrive at lease 10 minutes early. Bring extra copies of your resume ,references , and sample of your work if appliciable.
• Act and present a professional image. Dress, grooming, and firm handshake.
• Be conscise and complete, but brief in answering questions. Stay focused.
• Maintain good eye contact and good posture.
• Learn names.
• Ask questions. Follow up with a thank you note.
  

Networking or Not working:

• Make a list of everyone you know and people they know and identify how they could help you gather career information or experience. Professors, classmates, etc.
• Register with the career center and submit a resume for their data base.
• Consider participating in the Career Center's Majors & Mentors program to connect with an alumni with the degree and career that you are seeking.
• Look for professional related organizations and networking opportunities such as LinkedIn. Use social networking sites wisely and to your advantage.
• Print business cards listing your degree and contact information.
• Get involved in community organizations such as Chambers of Commerce, Young Professsionals or civic club groups.
• Volunteer at a local museum or social services agency such as the United Way or food bank.