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Job Search Strategies

Job Search Tips

Looking for a new job can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Here are some ways you can make your search more successful:

Tips for a Safe Job Search

  • Exercise caution and trust your instincts when applying for off-campus jobs. If a potential employer requests any activities that make you uncomfortable, it's important to decline. 
  • If a job offer or salary seems too good to be true, it likely is. 
  • Avoid faxing copies of your identification or Social Security number to unknown individuals. Only share these documents in person at the place of employment. Never disclose personal financial information. A legitimate employer will not ask for your bank account, credit card, or PayPal account details. 
  • Be wary of agencies offering undisclosed state or federal-level jobs. Legitimate positions are typically posted on official government employment sites, such as USAJobs.gov.

Warning Signs of Potential Job or Employer Scams

  • Email addresses that do not match the company website or are not associated with the company (e.g., name@gmail.com instead of name@companyname.com). 
  • Requests for credit card, bank account, or PayPal account information, or requests to transfer money. Legitimate organizations do not guarantee jobs or ask for payment for hiring or training. 
  • Job listings mentioning "money transfers" or "wiring funds." Legitimate employers will use their business accounts for any required transactions. 
  • Requests for photocopies of your ID (e.g., driver’s license) to "verify identity" before an interview. 
  • Requests for a background check before an interview.
  • Postings focusing on potential earnings without specifying job duties. Multiple spelling errors in the posting. 
  • For entry-level candidates with limited experience, be cautious of unusually high salary ranges. 
  • Job postings that contain multiple spelling errors.
  • Verify that the URL in an ad matches the internet domain of the company. If not, it could be a scam.

Additional Job Search Resources

Search Safely

  • Click here to read more about Handshake’s recommendations for safety and best practices for job searches.
  • Click here for more information from the Federal Trade Commission on how to spot a job scam.
  • Click here to watch a short video on how to spot fraudulent job postings, brought to you by CandidCareer.