Q4 Finding a Job: Safe Searching
Job Scams
As always, when using the Internet, we need to take precautions and be aware of incorrect, fake, or misleading information. You need to be able to tell the difference between real job postings and scams. Scammers will attempt to get your personal information wherever possible.
Discussion Question to consider as you play the video: How to Spot a Job Scam.
- What scam examples mentioned have you seen or heard about previously?
How to Spot a Job Scam
Direct link (1:52 min.)
Red Flags
Keep these job posting RED flags in mind:
- Minor errors in the web or email addresses used for the job posting.
- Requiring a purchase to apply.
- No interview process or only communication with one company contact.
- The recruiter is rushing you to apply.
- Search results are scarce, or there are no websites or only limited ways to contact the company about the job posting.
Safe searching strategies to know:
- Research the company before applying.
- Never pay for a job application.
- Avoid sharing personal information online unless you know where it will go and how it will be used.
- Talk to a trusted adult if you’re unsure about a job offer.
- Report suspicious job postings to the website or job board.
Activity: Your turn to practice safe job searching. You will review job postings to spot any red flags from the list above that might indicate they are scams.
Use the 16.Q4 Safe Search Student Activity Document to complete the activity. Notice that the document's first scenario, highlighted in red, is completed for you as an example.
Competencies & Standards
MITECS Michigan Integrated Technology Competencies for Students, and
1. Empowered Learner
a. Connect their learning needs, strengths and interests to their goals and use technology to help achieve them and reflect on their progress.
2. Digital Citizen
a. manage their digital identity and understand the lasting impact of their online behaviors on themselves and others and make safe, legal and ethical decisions in the digital world.
b. demonstrate empathetic, inclusive interactions online and use technology to responsibly contribute to their communities.
c. safeguard their well-being by being intentional about what they do online and how much time they spend online.
3. Knowledge Constructor
a. Use effective research strategies to find resources that support their learning needs, personal interests and creative pursuits.
c. Curate information from digital resources using a variety of tools and methods to create collections or artifacts that demonstrate meaningful connections or conclusions
d. Build knowledge by actively exploring real-world issues and problems, developing ideas and theories and pursuing answers and solutions
6. Creative Communicator
a. Choose the appropriate platforms and tools for meeting the desired objectives of their creation or communication
c. Use digital tools to visually communicate complex ideas to others.
d. Publish or present content that customizes the message and medium for their intended audiences.