BEWARE of SCAMMERS
Scams are running rampant on both sides of the job search. Scammers posing as resume writers and scammers posing as recruiters. Protect yourself by knowing what to look for!
TELL TALE SIGNS OF SCAM OR UNQUALIFIED RESUME WRITERS
Resume writing certifications you can’t verify with PARWCC, CDI, NRWA, and other associations (certified members are listed).
Examples of numerous professional resumes posted on their profile or in an email (likely not their own).
Suspiciously low pricing.
Unsolicited offers (especially if you have the “Open to Work” banner—THIS MAKES YOU A TARGET!
Claims to have done thousands of resumes over a few years—not possible unless you’re churning them out with AI.
Inconsistencies between LinkedIn, their website, and other social media.
Little resume writing background.
Unverified LinkedIn profile and few connections (although some have many) and few recommendations. For those with connections, click into the connections to see if they have connections and followers.
Promises that seem too good to be true.
Most are from countries other than the US. It is most difficult to understand the nuances of the English language if you are not native in the language. Also, most non-legit writers from other countries lack deep knowledge and insight into the US job market.
One last item--avoid resume “mills”-online resume writing companies that mass-produce generic, low-quality resumes, often with AI or low-paid contractors rather than providing personalized resume services.
TELL TALE SIGNS OF SCAM OR UNQUALIFIED RECRUITERS
They make requests for sensitive information (SSN, street address, date of birth, etc). Anything not related to skills, experience, education.
They use generic emails (Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc) or they contact you by text. Nearly all recruiters will use LinkedIn unless they are following up on a job application you submitted.
Job offers that come quickly and seem too good to be true.
Request for money “to get started” or “administrative fees”.
Comments that your resume “needs work” or isn’t ATS compatible, but they can fix--for a price.
Errors in spelling and grammar, or otherwise unprofessional wording.
Sense of urgency--pushing you to move forward.
Inconsistencies between LinkedIn and their website or no website.
Little or no recruiting background and little to no time at their company.
Not associated with a reputable company--freelancer.
Unverified LinkedIn profile and few connections (although some have many) and incomplete profile. For those with connections, click into the connections to see if they have connections and followers.