The case of the Brazilians Phelipe Ferreira and Luckas Viana, who became victims of human trafficking scheme after false job offers, reinforces the need to adopt a cautious and well-informed approach when considering job offers abroad. Giulia Lorena Mandri, Human Resources (HR) specialist at Wyser, the executive recruitment unit of the multinational Gi Group Holding, says that situations like this highlight the importance of adopting a careful stance throughout the entire selection process.
“The recruitment process follows a clear structure, with steps that include initial contact by HR, interviews with managers, and often video conferencing. Be wary of processes that do not include, at the very least, a video interview, especially for positions abroad. Serious companies strive to get to know the candidate better and provide transparency about the position,” explains Giulia.
The specialist emphasizes that prior research on the recruiting company is essential. Before applying, the interested party should investigate the history and reputation of the organization, whether it is 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 to watch out for 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,” emphasizes Giulia.
In addition, the process of legitimate international recruitment tends to be more extended, as it involves issuing documents for visas, housing, and other legal requirements. The specialist points out that, in her experience, the complete flow — from the initial approach 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 words in a commanding tone 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
A global survey conducted by the Ipsos institute 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 of Brazil, while 63% find the idea of establishing an international career appealing. These numbers reflect growth compared to 2021 when the rates were 60% and 59%, respectively.
“These data show how essential it is for professionals to be well-oriented and prepared to seize international opportunities safely and successfully,” highlights Giulia.
