by Doreen Martel

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: December 08, 2009

Since Craigslist often gets a bad rap, you might be wondering what the odds are of getting a job on Craigslist. As with any other online service, searching for work on Craigslist must be approached with an inordinate amount of caution. It's very simple to find yourself shoveling out money on expensive mailers, phone calls or worse.

Here are some of the best ways to utilize Craigslist for getting a job:

A) Get Local - Instead of using a generic "work at home" search, narrow your search down to an area where you can comfortably meet with a person who wants to hire you from Craigslist. Take the opportunity to speak with a person who is offering you a job from Craigslist either via telephone or SkypeTalk. If all goes well then consider a face-to-face meeting at a local coffee shop.

B) Use common sense - Make sure that you don't approach a job on Craiglist with "pie in your eye". If the job sounds too good to be true, well, factually, it probably is. Don't ignore your best instincts if they are telling you to run, not walk.

C) Agreement - Make sure that you reach a firm agreement with anyone who hires you for a job on Craigslist. Set out clear expectations, payment schedules, etc. This is after all a job and this person is going to be your employer even if you are a contractor.

D) Personal Information - Use extreme caution when sharing personal information. If you are asked for a bank account number or other information that you find problematic, don't accept the position. Do keep in mind however, that as a contractor you will have to report any earnings of $600 or more on your income tax and you will need a 1099 for that purpose. You can protect your Social Security number by applying for an EIN number. This can help protect you from potential issues.

Brick and Mortar Jobs

There are many companies that have discovered that they can put the equivalent of a classified ad on Craigslist. There are many companies that are advertising for part time, full time, telecommuting jobs and more. Don't overlook them just because you want to stay "self employed". Many of these employers may be willing to consider you as a contractor.

Summary

If you treat Craigslist as another resource to add to your list, then you can successfully use it as a tool for getting a job. With a combination of common sense and persistence, you may wind up getting a job on Craigslist.

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