Even after the slight improvement in the official unemployment rate in the third quarter of 2024, 32,1% of the country’s working population remains unemployed.
And as the State of the Nation address nears on Thursday 6 February, the country and critics will listen with bated breath to the plans to improve this number, among a long list of other concerns.
Using the desperation of the unemployed there has seen a worrying rise in opportunistic scammers who prey on this vulnerability.
Indeed, a career advertising portal offers the following advice on identifying popular scams.
1. The recruiter contacts you: often claiming that they found your resume online. While this alone does not necessarily mean the job is fake, if you are offered the job immediately, asked for unusual information, or notice other warning signs from this list, it could be a scam aimed at stealing your personal details.
2. You receive a job offer right away: without applying for the job, speaking with a hiring manager, or going through an interview, it can be a major red flag.
3. The pay is extremely high: If a job description lists an unusually high salary for the role, it could be a warning sign. Research the company and job further before applying.
4. The schedule seems too flexible: Many career opportunities offer flexible work hours to support a healthy work-life balance. However, if a job seems too flexible, it could be a red flag.
5. Job requirements and descriptions are vague: Legitimate job postings usually include clear, detailed descriptions and specific qualifications. In contrast, fake job postings often have vague requirements.
6. The company requires payment from you: Be cautious of any company, recruiter, or job offer that requires a form of payment from you. Legitimate employers will never require payment for the chance to work.
7. The job promises that you will get wealthy fast: Aim to look into the company’s compensation structure. If you cannot find clear details about how and when you will be paid, it may be prudent to assume that the job is not legitimate and continue your search.
8. Communication appears unprofessional: If a job offer email contains poor grammar, awkward syntax, or seems overly casual, it may be worth taking a closer look.
9. Contact information for the employer or company is missing: Fake job postings often lack key contact information or may provide vague details about the organization. If you notice that important company information is missing, conduct an online search for the company’s website or email address.
10. A company requests confidential information before hiring: When companies hire new employees, it tends to be standard practice to require the completion of tax documents and the submission of bank information for direct deposit, among other processes involving confidential personal information. However, this typically occurs after you have signed an offer and officially started your new role.
