Suspicious Job Postings

Don’t know what all you are seeing, but we are seeing more suspicious type job postings. Unfortunately in a tight economy, some prey on others with these great opportunities to “make lots of money” while actually putting in very little time or training. I can understand the appeal, who wouldn’t want to earn six figures for just an hour or two a week? Unfortunately, our cash-strapped students and even working adults are needing the extra income.

Obviously some of these opportunities are fake, there is no real employer and no real job. But in some of the others, there probably is great potential to earn, if you last long enough or work hard enough. The May 13,2009 NACE Spotlight highlighted the article - Considering an Opportunity to Work as an Independent Contractor? Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions which is a great resource for students (and also staff).

How far do we go in “protecting” our students? Our students also learn about opportunities outside of our offices. Even for those that come directly to our offices, we have the staff to thoroughly check out every single opportunity. Even if we did, sometimes great opportunities aren't so great and some poor opportunities turn out to be great. The Principles for Career Services Professionals says we will assist individuals in developing a career plan without imposing personal values or biases and that we will provide students with information on a range of career opportunities and types of organizations. So I guess I do my best to help others interpret the facts as they are presented but encourage caution. And maybe someday, a long lost relative really will seek me out to handle a transaction for thirteen million dollars and I’ll be ready.

Chris Timm, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Principles for Professional Practice Committee Chair