Hi there everyone! I recieved an email yesterday that made me feel so honored. I have been chosen, little old me, to become a member of the most respected and honored list. A who's who list of all things. Wow! All of my hard work is really getting me noticed. I feel so special. Gee! I only need to pay $199 today. Then if I want to be a lifetime member of this all important and significant registry of professionals who have reached the top of thier industry, I only need to pay nearly $700. Whew! And here I thought getting an MBA at a top school would get me closer to this goal. All I needed was to respond to an email and pay $700!!

How stupid do they think we are? The company "Salesman" and yes that is exactly what he is, a salesman, tried to tell me that they are so busy that I couldn't do my due dilligence first and then call back. It was a now or never hard close, and I could tell it was a scam. Any legit registry of who's who wouldn't charge you to be on it, nor would they tell you that you can't think it over and call them back. Wow! talk about "boiler room" sales. Don't even think about entering your information from an email link. That is just asking for trouble.  Also, never, ever, ever, think that you have to buy now or forget it. Total scam.

Strathmore, you had better watch out! We aren't that desperate for recognition and networking opportunities that we are going pay you for the privelage. There are some pretty angry consumers out there, and some burned professionals that are doing thier darndest to make themselves more attractive in the job market and for you to prey on them is not very wise. It will make you notorious, not noteworthy.

People, if you want to make yourself more attractive as an employee, get the skills and experience required for the position, period. Certifications for your respective profession and professional associations are far better avenues for recognition and networking, and professional designation. And if you do get on a who's who list, let's hope you didn't have to pay for it.