Recruiters warn of dodgy net references
BOSSES have been warned to be on the lookout for dodgy references bought from overseas websites that offer fake letters of recommendation and made-up referees.
Recruitment firms have issued the warning with the start of the new year, one of the busiest times for movement in the job market.
Employment website Careerexcuse.com, based in the US, offers glowing references from a range of fake companies all of which feature professionally created websites, switch numbers, active social media accounts and real people to answer calls and act as former managers.
Founder William Schmidt said Australian subscribers were mainly looking for jobs in the ''hi-tech'' and IT industry.
The nation is ranked fourth behind the US, Canada and the UK in terms of users.
''While some use (our) USA-based companies, most use our virtual companies that are located in (Australia),'' he said.
''Most of our members are looking to fill gaps that range (between) two to three years on their resumes.''
The website's Australian based ''virtual companies'' exist only online.
With gap years and travel popular among Gen Y jobseekers, Australian recruiters are also having to approach foreign references - such as those from the US - with a healthy dose of scepticism.
Russo Recruitment general manager Denise Love said such websites were a ''major and serious concern'' as it was common for recruiters to encounter applicants who have worked overseas.
''It's more unusual today if people haven't worked overseas,'' she said.
''It's generally embraced positively-I view it so.''
For $US65 per month, Careerexcuse.com subscribers can even invent a business of their choosing and have a ''professional five-page'' website created, ''pay-stubs'', a letter of recommendation and a ''live receptionist'' to answer any calls.
The website claims 75.3 per cent of its clients are called for interviews within 11 days of using the service, with 91 per cent landing the job within 72 hours of a reference check.
''We open doors for job seekers who sometimes just need a second chance,'' Careerexcuse.com claims.
''Many people make mistakes in their life, especially when going through a difficult divorce, illness, or other unforeseen events in their life.''
