Where do I go to complain about this sort of mis-selling/emotional blackmail selling?

CazGreg

I've come across a sales method that is really disgusting.

You apply for a job online and in the process also post your CV on a job site. Later that day you receive a phonecall, purporting to be with regards to your application. They tell you that your CV is rubbish, go through a long sales pitch, and attempt to sell you a CV writing service.

Fortunately I saw through the attempt and realised that this was not, in fact, a call with regards to my application. When I asked for specifics about my CV it became clear she hadn't actually seen it, although she tried to hide this. Unfortunately for them, I used to professionally help people at the Jobcentre with their CVs, so I KNOW mine is topnotch!

This is emotional blackmail, as a jobseeker will no doubt feel pressured into buying a service that they probably don't need (and can get elsewhere for free). I was especially disgusted by her final tactic - she called me back and left a message saying that unless I went with their service 'I don't think we'll get anywhere' with regards to finding a job!! I actually already have a high-flying job (attained with that same CV) but was just putting in a speculative application! :mad:

Can anyone direct me to the right body to make an official complaint about this? The whole thing is wrong on so many levels!

mo786uk

Trading Standards - via Consumer Direct.

However the law isnt great on 'emotional blackmail' its more about misleading.

There isn othign illegal about them scouring publicly posted CVs and then tyring to sell a service.

somethingcorporate

I don't see an issue with this, certainly no more blackmail than the chuggers you see every day on the streets and certainly not illegal.

Just say no thanks and hang up the phone.

bod1467

I actually agree with the OP, to a point. People in NEED of a job could quite easily be taken in by such tactics, at a time when they can least afford unnecessary outlay. (It's a bit like doorstep moneylending which, I believe, is now illegal - preying on the vulnerable).

It would be good if something could be done about such leaches. However I agree that it's unlikely to happen.

Just for clarity - I have not encountered this myself, so the above is my opinion not my experience.