3/30 called by female (actually two females called at the same time, call-waiting) to set-up interview for job applied for via telephone; interview scheduled in less than 2 hours. Given directions to location. Never given actual address of building, just directions! Was told the name of company was GMS.
Upon arrival, filled out "pre-application" form; went into "manager's office" and was given brief (10 minute) pitch - background on company. Company is Gateway Marketing or Global Marketing. They are Perfume/Fragrance marketing company - VERY IMPORTANT DETAIL - based in Atlanta. Will pay you during 60-90 day training program, after which you will run your own store. Was asked to call back between 4:00-4:30 pm. Purposefully did NOT call back - something sounded "off" about this. So, they called; asked for return at 11:00 am following day. Told them wasn't feeling well; would call in the morning to give answer.
In the meantime, researched on Internet. Gateway Marketing doesn't exist, Global Marketing DOES exist: also International Marketing, Southwest Marketing, Midwest Marketing - several names. All ultimately tied to World Perfume, World Fragrances - based out of Atlanta. Company lures people in with promises of high sales, 60-90 days training and running own store at end of training. They actually suck people dry, using employees cars/gas to go out on sales trips and campaigns with promises of bonuses if goals are met.
Goals can never be met; bonuses are never paid out. Employees never break even, many lose money - some lose their homes if they stay too long. Company has been in St. Louis before under name of International Marketing.
Contacted local newspaper and advised them about company - getting all advertising pulled from paper and getting company blocked from placing future ads under current name. Considering other actions on local level - having authorities check for business licenses, etc. Business appears legitimate on surface but is scam. Only way to make money is to suck in other unsuspecting job-seekers and rip them off, just like you were.
Stay away from this company in whatever form they present themselves in your community. Fortunately, research and quick, broad-scale action paid off and kept people safe from them this time. They are sneaky and cannot be trusted. They will try this in your town - they have been all over the united states.
Watch for: world perfume, scentura, generic-sounding marketing companies selling perfume with home office based in atlanta.
Please beware! Do your homework! If it sounds too good to be true - and it involves perfume - shut them down before they hurt someone!
St. Louis, MO
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