Today’s tough economy has people looking for jobs in a variety of places. Unconventional means have been used to catch the eye of otherwise oblivious employers. Some people are willing to do anything to get a job even if it unwittingly puts their personal safety in jeopardy.
No job is worth being injured, robbed or sexually assaulted. Stay smart and stay safe on the job hunt by considering the following tips:
Location, location, location: It may seem perfectly normal for someone to meet you at their home especially if the position you are applying for would require you to work there like a nanny, housekeeper, or personal assistant. However it’s acceptable to request a more public setting for the first time you get together and then schedule a follow up at their home if you get a good vibe.
Buddy system: Always inform a friend when you have an interview with an unfamiliar company or individual. Let them know the address you’re headed to as well as the time that you expect to leave and return. Should you have to meet someone at their home definitely bring a buddy. Load up the iPod and leave them in the car but try not to enter a stranger’s home without a getaway driver waiting in the wings.
Dress professionally: Avoid revealing or sexualized clothing. Many people want to look stylish at an interview and end up looking slutty instead. Find a way to be chic and safe. Whatever your gender, the wardrobe you choose should be breathable with room to move. It’s harder to flee from a dangerous situation if you’re stuck in tight pants or high heels.
Background check: There’s no reason not to research anyone you intend to interview before you go. Run the company, their name, address, phone number or any information you have through Google and see what come up. If they have an ad posted for the local position you are applying for on every craigslist in the country it’s probably a scam. If you’re still not sure ask to see a business card or anything else that would verify who they say they are.
Provide your own ride: It was a rule as a kid and nothing has changed; don’t get in the car with strangers. Make sure you have transportation to and from every interview. Politely decline if an interviewer offers to give you a lift home, even if your car is broken down and it is raining.
Trust your gut: An uneasy feeling from the location, the interviewer or anything you discover in your research shouldn’t be quickly dismissed. That little voice inside that tells you when something is a bad idea is usually right. If you’re that uncomfortable just from the interview, why would you want to work there anyway?
Nip it in the bud: Should the interviewer say or do anything aggressive or offensive you are not under any obligation that requires you to stay and hear them out. Address the issue immediately and remove yourself from the situation if necessary.
Avoid TMI: Don’t give an interviewer all of your personal information online. Many will ask for your date of birth or social security number. Be selective who you send it to and never give out credit card information unless you want to pay someone else’s bills.
You don’t have to lock yourself in the closet, but you don’t have to be a victim either. Be aware that everyone might not be as honest as and so sometimes you will have to put your safety ahead of your job search.
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