I received an email from 1st-Team stating they had viewed my resume onCareerbuilder and they thought I'd be a perfect fit for their VA (VIP vitual assistant) position. I responded with an email requesting more info about the position and company.
Next, I received an email from a "Mr. Robert Morrell, a supposed HR manager" who would advise me on what I was to do next in the steps for becoming employed with 1st-Team. He sent a loose contract, (nothing incriminating) just stating the company's outline and obligations from the employee. I signed (electronically), and sent it back to him.
Then I got my 1st assignment, which was fairly easy, asking me to research 2-3 printed media companies locally. I was to call and review which might the "client" use for advertising. I did the task, and was congratulated for a great report.
My 2nd assignment was a bit more involved, where the "corporate client" (within the company) had purchased a painting from a Russian artist on his travels to Europe some years back. The painting was damaged, and he wanted the "artist", (Alexander Glebovich Sharapov) to re-create this painting. Money was no object.
At this Point you see it is exactly like the other gentlemans experience. When I search for the artist the rip-off report came up and saved me a lot of time and money! Same exact job sent to each prospect in hopes of getting the 10,000 Western Union transfer to Russia.
In all of this, I have never spoken with anyone from 1st-Team, only emails. Even though on their website, and in the contract it states that after the completion of the 1st assignment, the "HR manager" would contact the prospective employee.
It also states to always have your cell with you because if they cannot reach you after 3 attempts, you will no longer be considered for the position. Also, a payment for the trial period upon completion to the perspective employee would be $1000 and $2000 per month, with a 10% pay raise every six months.