The case of Brazilians Phelipe Ferreira and Luckas Viana, who became victims of a human trafficking scheme after fake job offers, reinforces the need to adopt a cautious and well-informed stance when considering job opportunities abroad. Giulia Lorena Mandri, a Human Resources (HR) specialist at Wyser, the executive recruitment unit of multinational Gi Group Holding, says situations like this highlight the importance of adopting a thorough approach throughout the selection process.
“The recruitment process follows a clear structure, with steps that include initial contact by HR, interviews with managers, and often video conferences. Be wary of processes that do not include, at the very least, a video interview, especially for positions abroad. Serious companies take the time to get to know the candidate better and offer transparency about the position,” explains Giulia.
The specialist emphasizes that prior research about the recruiting company is essential. Before applying, candidates should investigate the organization’s history and reputation, whether it’s the direct employer or a third-party consultancy. Official websites, internet search tools, and even reviews on career platforms can provide important clues about the company’s credibility.
“Another point of attention is the salary issue. Although working abroad offers financial advantages, be wary of excessively high salaries for the position offered. Use reliable platforms to compare the average salary in the country and in the specific currency,” Giulia points out.
Additionally, the process of legitimate international recruitment tends to be longer, as it involves issuing documents for visas, housing, and other legal requirements. The specialist notes that, in her experience, the complete flow—from initial contact to starting the new position—takes about three months.
The offer letter or employment proposal is another indispensable element. “No serious company fails to provide a detailed document containing salary, benefits, and location. Never accept an opportunity without this formalization,” she warns.
Finally, Giulia recommends paying attention to the language used in communications. “Grammatical errors or commanding language can indicate fraud, even in English. Use translators or artificial intelligence tools to evaluate the text if the language is unfamiliar,” she advises.
Growing desire for international opportunities
The global survey conducted by Ipsos in partnership with Gi Group Holding reveals an increase in Brazilians’ desire to seek professional experiences abroad. According to the study, 70% of respondents expressed interest in working outside Brazil, while 63% find the idea of establishing an international career attractive. These numbers reflect growth compared to 2021, when the rates were 60% and 59%, respectively.
“This data shows how crucial it is for professionals to be well-guided and prepared to take advantage of international opportunities safely and successfully,” emphasizes Giulia.
