The way we look for employment has changed dramatically over the years and job hunting has mostly moved online. This has changed the accessibility of job opportunities as they can be found in more avenues like social networking applications, job sites and search engines. While this offers you a wider array of opportunities, there is a greater risk of falling prey to some scams so some caution must be exercised.
While job hunting, it is essential that you also prioritize protecting your privacy. There are many safety concerns during the process such as social networks that might collect your information and later sell it which could put you at risk. Here are some methods that you can follow to protect your privacy when searching for a job.
- Protect Your Devices
You might use your electronic devices for job hunting and it is essential that they have anti-virus software protection. It is important that you update your technology regularly as it will combat the latest malware, viruses, phishing, and spyware.
Avoid using public WiFi connection as it makes easier for other people to gain access of your activities, as well as intercepting documents and information that you want to share with the recruiter.
Ensure that you have implemented security measures to protect the information on your device. One way you can do this is by having a password or PIN. If someone had to get a hold of your device they wouldn’t be able to access your personal information or documents.
- Protect Your Personal Information Online
In an effort to secure a job, people provide all their contact information such as cellphone number, personal emails, identification documents and even their home addresses so it is easy for employers to reach them. Providing too much personal information is extremely dangerous, especially online as hackers can use this information to hack into your other accounts. If an employer requires that information from you then they will ask that you send it in a more secure way during the hiring process.
- Research Company Processes
Before you send out your CV you should find out whether the company is the one that reviews CVs or whether they outsource that job. A reputable company also has measures in place to ensure that third parties will be unable to view your information.
- Be Careful of Where You Share Your CV
When applying for jobs it might seem like the more places you apply to, the greater your chances of landing an interview. However, this approach to job hunting puts you more at risk than being selective.
There are some sites that claim to offer services that send out your CV to companies looking for candidates like you. It might be the quickest method, but it is also the riskiest. The danger in this is that you really don’t know where your information is shared and whether they store it securely or not.
- Make Note of Where You Sent Your Information
During the job-hunting process, you will most likely send your CV to many different places and you need to keep a list of the places that you sent your CV to. This will be helpful when you find employment as you will need to remove your CV from the sites and job boards posted on.
If you applied for a job it will also be easier to follow up on any other future career opportunities that might arise.
- Watch Out for Scams
The most common method used by scammers is sending out unsolicited emails or posting fake job ads which are supposed to be from an employer. Most job scams at the moment include work from home opportunities or they offer huge returns for small efforts. The scammers are aware of the fact that all these things are appealing to the current job market as most people are truly desperate.
Research the company if they require you to submit information for a job as this will help you see if it is legitimate. Reviews and feedback from customers and employees about the company are more reliable to check for legitimacy than a company website as it could be a cover for a scam. If your gut tells you that something is amiss, then you should trust it.
Be aware of the following red flags:
- The first red flag is an employer who wants to hire you on the spot.
- Receiving a job or interview for a job position you didn’t apply for.
- When an email or job post contains typos and errors.
- The emails come from domains like Gmail, Hotmail or Yahoo rather than the name of the company.
- The employer requires you to pay to start working there or to purchase items like software programs.
Conclusion
The process of looking for employment is difficult and stressful already, but you don’t want to deal with identity theft as well. Be extremely cautious and follow the safety tips offered above to make job hunting much more secure.
