You might get paid at this type of job, but chances are slim you’ll rack up good, resume-building experience.

Here are some tips for recognizing shady internships:
- It promises quick money and lots of it. If it sounds too good to be true—it is.
- It’s a small organization you can’t find in the Yellow Pages.
- The employer advertises its “internships” on flyers all over campus.
- It’s a sales-related job and the pay is based on commission.
- The employer doesn’t inquire about your experience, background, or career interests to see if you’re a good fit for the position.
- You get vague answers to your questions about the work you’d be doing.
- The offices are in a questionable location, such as a warehouse area or a person’s home.
- The employer doesn’t ask you to complete a job application before making you an offer.
- Your instincts are telling you to get out as fast as you can!