Action 9

Ballantyne man says online job offer didn't pay off, literally

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Gordon Reynolds puts up yard signs for businesses. He wanted to earn extra money.

He went on Craigslist, saw an ad to place signs for an internet service and jumped on it.  He said the business mailed him signs. He told Action 9 he put out 600 and was supposed to be paid $2 for each sign, so $1,200 total.

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He said the business didn't pay him anything, so he complained to the business.

He told Action 9 the business texted him back.  First it said, "U will be paid."  Then it said he was "fired ... You lack communication skills."  But it still promised, "U will be paid !!! That's [sic] not the issue!"

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But months later, it is the issue. "It's pretty frustrating knowing that you completed what was asked of you and you didn't get what you were, their end of the bargain wasn't filled," he said.

When Action 9 called the number, no one answered or returned the call.

If you're pursuing a job opportunity you found online and it's not the kind of job where you will meet the employer in person:

  • Research the business. Make sure it's real.
  • When it comes to the job description, the more details the better.
  • It's OK to ask for money up front. Make sure the check clears before you do any of the work. Never spend your own money, hoping to get reimbursed.

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