Common Job Scams: Stay Aware and Protect Yourself

The above picture is of a man sitting at a desk with his laptop open, his hands raised with a look of turmoil on his face.

Common Job Scams: Stay Aware and Protect Yourself

There are lots of scams out there in the world. The top fraud of 2017 was one where people would receive a call from a loved one who was reportedly in trouble and needed to be sent money. In fact, $328 million was lost to this scam alone, and one in five people who reported a scam fell victim to one.

The fact that any scam exists is unfortunate, but when you're looking for a job, the thought of a scam can make an inherently stressful process even scarier.

Especially if you're someone who hasn't been working for some time, it's hard to know where to look for signs of trouble. Here's how to avoid some top job scams so you can start earning without fear.

Ways to Avoid Common Job Scams

Luckily, many jobs that are scams have the same warning signs to look out for. On sites like Craigslist and others, chances are if it feels fishy, then it's fishy. Don't be a victim to something that you can avoid.

Look for the Warning Signs

Some warning signs may seem very obvious, and others might be more subtle and hard to detect. The sad reality is that these scams are around because they actually work.

If a job seems too good to be true, it almost without a doubt actually is. If you're offered the job straight away without an interview or without even applying, you should know that you're getting scammed. If little to no discussion has taken place with an employer, there's something that's not right about the process.

If the company you're looking into asks you to transfer money to them or wants to know your credit card information, that's a scam as well. This is something that you should report, as it's a blatant attack on people to try to get money.

Any time a company asks for personal information such as this, or something like your driver's license number or social security number, you should no longer contact that company.

If you have to pay for training, the job isn't legitimate or fair. If you have to pay for a credit check as a part of your application process, the company is trying to get money from you. Same goes for if you're asked to wire money or forward it to a third party.

Salary details can be a tricky topic to navigate while in the job market, but if they're wildly unclear, then something might be wrong. If the employer can't give you at least an estimate of a number, then they might not be a legitimate company.

Don't get disheartened. There are a lot of jobs out there with reliable companies that are excited to work with you. The good outweighs the bad, but the bad does need to be watched out for.

Do a Background Check

When you're considering applying to a company, do your research on them before you take another step.

If you just do as much as google the name of the company and add "scam" to the end of it, you may come up with some results that can help clear things up for you.

You can also check to see if the company is listed on Glassdoor and see what kinds of reviews that they have. If the reviews aren't good, it means other people have gone before you and seen if the company is a scam.

If there is no contact information on the website of the business you're looking into, that is another warning sign. You can also check the company out through the Better Business Bureau.

Types of Scams

Besides run of the mill scams to do with applying for jobs, career-related scams are also out there.

If someone is advertising career consulting, you have to be careful. There are people out there who will pretend to be impressed with your skill set and ask to represent you. They'll try to sell you resume writing skills, marketing services, and more to take your money from you.

Recruiters can also contact you saying that they have a job that would be perfect for you. They'll also, unfortunately, say that there isn't an opening right now, but if they could offer you a little bit of training, it might increase your candidacy.

These people are trying to get you to pay for training that will not pan out for you in the end, because the position was likely not ever going to open up or wasn't real in the first place.

There are also people out there who are phishing for your info. If you can't apply directly for a job on a website and it redirects you to a form where you have to fill out information, carefully look at the form to see if it's legitimate. They could be looking to take your information when you fill out this form, not use it to let you apply to a job, and actually be selling it to a third party that collects information.

Get the Real Deal

Go with a website you can trust your future career with. Job Opportunities for Disabled Veterans has carefully vetted all our jobs to make sure that you're given the kind of rewarding and fair opportunity that you deserve.

Working from home is also an option to consider. Working as a freelance writer, an online tutor, translator, editor, or more can be a way to be comfortable when you're working and might feel hesitant about fully returning to the workforce. With a little bit of work, working from home might be a great option for you that can also help you avoid common types of job scams.

Don't let fear of someone taking advantage of you hold you back. When you're aware of all the dangers of job scams out there, you'll be able to confidently look for jobs and steer clear of warning signs. The sooner you start, the sooner you can start earning money and moving forward. Sign up now to start your job search today!

Can You Be Fired for Having a Learning Disability?

Can Your Employer Fire You for Having a Learning Disability?

Living with a learning disability doesn’t disqualify you from finding jobs. You can work disabled, and in fact, you may have strengths that make you an asset to a business or an organization. Acts and regulations are in place to prevent employers from discriminating against applicants and employees who have learning disabilities.

The ADA 

An employer who fires a worker or refuses to hire an applicant based on a learning disability could face serious legal consequences. The Americans with Disabilities ACT (ADA) was established to prevent businesses with more than 15 employees from discriminating against individuals with disabilities, including learning disabilities. The ADA also covers workers of labor organizations and employment agencies. Although an employer cannot fire you for having a learning disability, the company can fire you based on a fictitious application, the inability to complete job duties outlined in your work description, or if you’re a threat to yourself and others. If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, you could file a claim against your previous employer with the ADA or your state attorney general department. 

Finding Suitable Employment

Many people want to work at their dream job, but sometimes they lack the qualifications to do so. Research positions you have the education and training to excel within. If you have a learning disability, it’s best to have evaluations done prior to going on the job hunt. These evaluations can be completed by a primary care physician, a physical therapist, a counselor, and other medical professionals. Finding the right type of job prevents you from wasting time applying for positions or promotions that aren’t suitable to perform while managing your learning disability. 

Employee Accommodations 

Depending on the type of learning disability you have, an employer may need to adjust your workload and the office atmosphere to accommodate you and other employees. You can learn more about reasonable accommodations you may be eligible for by researching the ADA and any state or local regulations within your community. 

Work Strategies 

Once you’ve found the position that’s best for you, develop a strategy to ensure your disability doesn’t prevent you from keeping up with the duties outlined in your job description. Try taking notes while a team leader or supervisor is giving out directions or suggestions. Employees with disabilities can also use a recording device to tape meetings and other important conversations that play a key role in their job performance. The objective is to do as much as possible to give yourself an advantage, based on your current abilities.

It’s important to find the right company to work for and ensure they don’t discriminate against those who are disabled. Jobs are readily available for people with learning disabilities, and you can begin your search by browsing the listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. If you have any questions about employment for individuals living with disabilities, please feel free to give us a call at 760-420-1269.

7 Perfect Part-Time Jobs for People with Disabilities

7 Ideal Part-Time Jobs for Individuals with Disabilities

Having a job helps you establish greater independence when you’re faced with a disability. However, you also need to tailor your job search to include options that fit your abilities. Depending on your particular disability, sit-down jobs may be ideal. However, there are many other options to consider. You can use these seven part-time jobs as inspiration to find a position in which you enjoy the best opportunities for success in the workplace. 

1. Customer Service Representative 

Companies rely on customer service representatives to serve as the main point of contact when people have questions, concerns, or want to place an order. This job is ideal for people with mobility challenges since many of these positions are stationed in call centers. Since many companies prefer their employees to work with a script, they’re also willing to hire and train people who are new to this type of work. 

2. Accountant

Accounting services such as bookkeeping and tax preparation are often conducted on a part-time basis. While these jobs do require some mathematical skill, you can often find entry-level positions in the busy season at tax preparation companies. Typically, they get you started with a short round of training before having you begin work with the customers. If you already have experience in the accounting field, look for established firms with part-time positions available. 

3. Retail Store Greeter 

Store greeters are still in high demand, and some of the biggest retail companies strive to create a diverse workplace by encouraging people in this position to use accommodations to do their best at work. A store greeter is a great part-time job for people who cannot be on their feet for long periods or those who live with cognitive challenges, since it requires little more than the ability to smile and answer simple questions from the customer. 

4. Office Assistant 

Office jobs come with a wide range of duties you can explore to find a position that fits your skill set. Front desk work tends to involve being able to use a computer and answer the telephone. However, you can also find office positions that are suitable for people with hearing loss, since you may only need to be able to file documents away or run errands such as dropping off mail at the post office. 

5. Sales 

Sales positions tend to come with the bonus of commissions, which can help you make up for having to work part-time. Since most sales skills are learned in the field, you can often find entry-level work at retail stores where customers need personal attention, such as stores that sell electronics. This type of job is best for people with disabilities who are comfortable interacting socially. 

6. Computer-Related Support 

Technology jobs are always hiring, and you may be a perfect fit for this type of work if you love working with computers. Depending on your abilities, you may visit customers’ homes to fix common user problems. You could also get a more advanced position in IT support in an office environment if you have experience in the field. 

7. Educational Assistant 

Schools are an excellent resource for part-time work, and your disability could be a major asset in the right educational environment. For example, you might be needed to use sign language to communicate with students in a special education classroom, or your wheelchair may put a student with a disability at ease as you serve as a lunchroom monitor.

In addition to part-time positions, there are many full-time jobs for mildly disabled people. If you’re ready to begin your search for employment, check out the listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. We’re here to help if you need us. Just give us a call at 760-420-1269.

How to Manage Depressive Disorder in the Workplace

How to Address Depressive Disorder While at Work

Going to work represents a major step in the ability to manage the symptoms of depressive disorder. However, you may be worried about how you’ll handle the additional stress of starting a new job. While staying on track with your treatment plan is still essential, you can also use these tips to manage your depression and be successful in the workplace. 

Choose the Right Work Arrangements 

If depressive disorder is a new diagnosis, it’s possible your former career may no longer be a good fit. It’s also common for people with known depression to stay in the same workplace for years without realizing their condition has been contributing to their symptoms. In the beginning of your recovery, you may need to look for employment opportunities that help you ease back into the working world. For instance, part-time jobs for people with disabilities or those that offer flex time may give you the time you need to de-stress between shifts. 

Break Work Tasks Up into Smaller Goals 

Once you begin to work, one of your biggest concerns is to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Instead of looking at everything that needs to be accomplished in a day, try breaking complicated responsibilities into smaller, more achievable goals. Not only will this help you avoid getting stressed out, but completing each goal may provide a mental boost that increases positive feelings throughout your workday. 

Practice Stress Management Techniques 

                                      
Every job comes with demands that lead to stress. For this reason, you need to continuously add new stress management techniques to your toolkit. Try finding a combination of techniques you can use at home and in the workplace. For instance, you can go for a run as soon as you get home to get endorphins flowing. At work, you may be able to strike a quick yoga pose in your office or take a few deep breaths before working with a customer. 

Personalize Your Workspace

 
The symptoms of depression could cause you to lose sight of what brings you joy in life. A few personal touches in your workspace can bring your thoughts back to your sense of purpose. Try adding plants, photographs, or small knickknacks to your workspace to create a relaxing atmosphere. If your workplace doesn’t provide you with space to set up personal items, consider carrying a picture of your family in your pocket or another small token you can use as motivation for making it through each day. 

Follow Basic Self-Care Measures 

Hectic work weeks make it difficult to keep up with basic self-care practices that are important for maintaining a positive mindset. As you go back to work, make sure to include self-care practices in your routine so they become ingrained into your daily activities. Go to bed early enough each night to get proper sleep, and take time out for lunch to eat right during the day. Finally, make sure to carve out a few hours each week for personal pursuits that help you de-stress before going back to work.

Whether you’re living with depressive disorder or another disability, there are many jobs for disabled men and women that may be suitable for you. Start by searching the listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. You can also feel free to give us a call at 760-420-1269 if you have any questions about searching for suitable jobs for people living with disabilities.

Are Service Animals Allowed at Work?

Can You Bring a Service Animal to Your Job?

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) the phrase “service animal” refers to a dog that has undergone training to perform specific tasks for an owner living with a disability. The animals must also be socially trained to act appropriately while on duty. An individual may require the services of an animal if he or she has an intellectual, mental, physical, psychiatric, or sensory disorder. When service animals are deemed qualified, their owners may take them to their workplace. 

Various laws prohibit anyone from discriminating against an employee secondary to disability. Under these circumstances, employers must make certain concessions, which often includes allowing a disabled employee to be accompanied by a service animal. Some employers offering jobs for disabled people also allow emotional support animals. However, stipulations apply. 

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission assumes responsibility for enforcing employment provision mandated by the ADA. However, the agency doesn’t have specific guidelines when it comes to service or emotional support animals. 

In certain situations, an individual's disability may not be visibly apparent. Sometimes, the reason for requiring a service animal might not be clear. In these instances, the employer has the right to request documentation that verifies the disability and how the animal assists the owner in performing the job. 

The verification may include a detailed explanation as to what tasks the animal is required to perform on the behalf of the owner. The animal might also be required to demonstrate its behavior in the workplace. Initially, the employer and employee may agree the service animal's presence is allowed on a trial basis. 

Human Resources 

Employers may require that an employee who wishes to bring a service animal to work seek approval through human resources. During the consultation process, the animal owner must: 

• Prove the service animal is properly trained 
• Possess documentation or proof of insurance that covers the animal 
• Provide proof that the animal is current on all vaccinations, free of parasites, and properly groomed 
• Ensure the animal won’t interact with other employees or pose a possible health risk to others 
• Sign a waiver that states the owner accepts all responsibility for the animal 

If at any time, the animal displays inappropriate social behavior that jeopardizes the workplace, interferes with other employees, or in other ways becomes disruptive, the employer has the right to prohibit the animal's future presence. 

Service Animals-in-Training 

According to the ADA, employers might also be obligated to allow an employee to bring a service animal to work if the animal is in the process of being trained for duty. However, the animal must be in the process of learning how to assist the employee at work by performing specific tasks. If the animal becomes disruptive or behaves inappropriately during the training process, the employer has the right to prohibit the animal’s presence in the future.

Whether or not you can bring your service animal to work is just one of the many factors to consider when job searching. People with disabilities have many great opportunities for employment, no matter the challenges they face. If you’re seeking a new job, take a look at the listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. If you’d like to learn more about our charitable organization, or if you have any difficulties navigating the site, please feel free to give us a call at 760-420-1269.