So I am on the job hunt, and I saw a posting for Universal Online, which is affiliated with Pro-Marketing Group. Because I'm young, with only a year in the advertising industry under my belt, I sent them my resume (I believe it was on a Friday). The following Monday, I received a phone call and an email from Universal Online telling me I had been selected for a preliminary interview. I thought, wow that was quick, and I returned their call.
The girl I talked to was very cheery, and very eager to get me to interview; she told me that her manager saw my resume and was very impressed. One of the things she asked me is if I would be able to work ASAP. I said no, I wasn't expecting to be contacted so soon and I would need at least a month after the interview, but meanwhile I was thinking, what company asks that? So anyways, I set up the interview, then later after work I went out and bought a nice suit for it.
Well I decided to do a little more research on Universal Online and PMG, as any good interviewee should. First off, their web site was only focused on the entry-level training program they have - nothing about the companies they work for, or any samples of what they create. Well then I googled their name, and whoa! There are a lot of disgruntled PMG (and R3 Enterprises) ex-employees out there!
I'm writing this just to confirm to everyone that they are still kicking and trying to scam people. I sent them an email declining the interview I set up with them, and berating them for scamming young kids like myself. I'll be taking the suit back, and thank God I didn't mention this interview to my current employer!
Beware out there - and thanks to other people who wrote about PMG and Universal Online - you have saved me from a horrible career move!
PS Here is the email they sent me regarding my resume.
Congratulations!
After reviewing you're past experiences and qualifications, my associates and I have selected you for a preliminary interview. We are currently receiving resumes every day for the positions available and out of those potential candidates we have selected only a handful to interview with Universal.
Due to a major expansion in our client base, we are looking to fill positions in the marketing/management training program. If you are selected to join our team, my associates and I will cross-train you in all aspects of our industry. This includes training in promotional advertising, public relations, sales, and marketing. You will also learn vital management and leadership skills while overseeing campaigns. For more information on our company please visit our website at www.pmg7.com
We have already started preliminary interviews and are looking to fill positions immediately. Interviews are conducted in our Midtown Manhattan office, as we do not conduct phone interviews. To insure an opportunity to meet with us, please contact us at 212-947-3201 or via email at
[email protected] between 9am-5pm.
Looking forward to meeting you and good luck!
Peachykeen1184
Brooklyn, New York
U.S.A.