Hired or Hustled? Avoiding Job Search Predators

In this episode, our panel explores a troubling trend in today’s job market: companies that exist to exploit job seekers. The reality of today’s job market? Ongoing layoffs and exponentially more candidates than open jobs. As a result, many people are opening their wallets to paid recruiters, coaches, career accelerators, and “job connector platforms” that promise hidden opportunities for a steep monthly fee.

It’s all so confusing: which of these services provide legitimate help? Which ones are just middlemen that prey on the unemployed? How can job seekers steer clear of the ones motivated by greed that don’t provide any real value?

Throughout this timely conversation, our panel discusses how the modern job search landscape has changed, why so many questionable services have emerged, and how candidates can protect themselves. We also share practical advice on identifying ethical recruiters, avoiding scams, and navigating the job market with confidence and strategy.

The episode ultimately builds to an upsetting realization: instead of job seekers being treated as the customer, many systems now treat them as a product to be monetized. With this in mind, our panel explains how workers can start to shift the power dynamic by building authentic relationships, verifying credibility, and trusting their instincts when evaluating job search services.

👥 Get to know our panel:

Aaron Wolpoff – Host & Panelist / Marketing Background

Melissa Eaton – Panelist / Operations & CX Background

Chino Nnadi – Panelist / People, Culture & Corporate Recruitment Background, founder of Like Cappuccino recruitment agency

Key Takeaways

Most legitimate recruiters never charge candidates for job placement.

Many “job search services” profit from fear and uncertainty.

Always research the credibility of coaches, recruiters, or platforms.

Trust your instincts when evaluating job opportunities or programs.

Networking and direct connections remain the most effective path to new opportunities.

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