The season has come for college students to apply for jobs and internships.
Although positions from well-known companies may seem alluring , some companies are using the pyramid scheme. A pyramid scheme refers to a company persuading potential employees that they are a well-known business. In addition to this, multiple people are paid from the money the new recruiter worked hard for.
“I was upset that I wasted hours of my spring break interviewing for this company that was completely dishonest, but I’m glad that I gained experience from the situation,” said Cassandra Hamilton, Capital Univerity’s Peer Career Advisor.
These companies have an agenda to recruit college students and convince them that they will make a lot of money and have their own business within six months. The reality is that the individuals hired only receive a small pay for their work, while those that hired them receive the majority.
The only time the new recruiter can receive any money is if they are able to get a certain amount of people to invest in whatever they are selling. Items that are usually sold include appointments and coupons.
“It’s a waste of time for any student to go through this,” said Jan D. Rich, Director of Career Development .
Rich gave some tips on how to decide whether a job is legitimate or a pyramid scheme. Avoid applying if:
- The ad promises that you will make a lot of money or own your own business in 6 months.
- The frequently asked questions are all about hiring.
- The webpage has no direct contact information.
- The webpage has stock photos instead of actual people that work for the company.
- The first interview is easy and the office is unprofessional.
- You are asked to ride around in a vehicle for a few hours and are asked to sell a product.
Rich also said that students should use Glassdoor.com to see reviews for the company.
The Career Development office does not tolerate businesses that practice pyramid scheme methods and does not post these positions on its website.
Students are encouraged to go to Career Development if they have any questions about a job prior to applying .
