No toys for you! (On being a skeptical charity donor)
I hate being skeptical about charitable solicitors, but I am.
This evening there was a solicitor with a table display of children’s toys on the sidewalk in front of the Long’s Pharmacy on Middlefield Road, next to a barrel marked for donation to Toys for Tots. In general, I like to make planned donations, and usually only make unplanned donations to people and causes that I know or are reasonably likely to be who they say they are. (Girl Scout cookies come to mind…)
For some reason, this evening I actually took the time to stop at this woman’s display and hear her pitch. The basic idea was that you buy one of her “pre-approved” toys and put them in the donation barrel at the end of the booth. The suggested items were around $20, and at the moment I didn’t recall hearing of Toys for Tots before (it turns out they’re legitimate, and well rated at Charity Navigator), so I asked if she had any credentials or anything else to vouch for her. She had a letter in a plastic sheet protector describing Toys for Tots, but said she didn’t have any ID and no one there would know who she was.
I was starting to vaguely recall something about Toys for Tots (it’s the toy drive run by the Marine Corps), and it seemed they would be better organized than that. The woman offered to call her supervisor and proceeded to dial a number on her cell phone, but no one answered on the other end.
At this point in the conversation I’m thinking I’ve already spent too much time on this and want to leave, but I get out a pen to write down the contact info on the letter in the sheet protector anyway. The woman I’ve been talking with doesn’t offer her name, but volunteers that she’s working for a company called Fifth Dimension Promotions, so I write that down as well, and departed without making a toy or cash donation. I told her I wasn’t comfortable making a $20 donation to someone I didn’t know with no plausible credentials, and suggested that she have Toys for Tots or her company provide her with something for future outings.
Later, digging around on Google, no such company turns up as “Fifth Dimension Promotions”, but “5th Dimension Promotionz” is apparently a multi-level marketer based in San Jose. They don’t appear to have their own web site, but show many listings on various job sites. They describe themselves:
5th Dimension Promotionz is the nation’s leading provider of promotional marketing and event marketing solutions. We work in conjunction with industry leaders in the fields of hospitality, sports, and charities. 5th Dimension Promotionz provides unique cross promotional strategies and product launch promotions. We provide staff to represent our clients at trade shows and sporting events for sampling and product demonstrations, as well as providing sales and marketing efforts throughout our communities.
So, in the worst case, we have a freelance charity promoter, selling toys at what appears to be a relatively high markup in the name of charity, and perhaps even reclaiming the items from the donation barrel at the end of the day so little to nothing ends up going to charity.
In the best case, we have a freelance charity promoter, selling somewhat overpriced toys and using most of the profit margin to pay for the booth staffer and downline MLM, with some additional toys going to Toys for Tots. The donors would have achieved more by giving directly to Toys for Tots, although the promoter is arguably providing a marketing and convenience service. I probably would have donated if I were confident that some of the money would end up in right hands.
Having looked up Toys for Tots on Charity Navigator, it looks like it’s well run, with 98% of funds going to programs rather than overhead. I’m not sure that they even have an affiliation with 5th Dimension Productionz, other than having some extra toys turn up at the end of the season.
I have mixed feelings about all this. In principle, I think most people would like to help others who ask. In practice, I’m reflexively distrustful of anyone claiming to work for a charity or political cause. I was puzzled by the woman and her booth this evening, and was curious enough to spend a few minutes checking it out. I started out feeling kind of bad that I didn’t trust her, and ended up feeling kind of bad that I was probably right. I suspect that 5th Dimension Productionz isn’t doing anything wrong, exactly. The woman staffing the booth is just doing her job, trying to work up the MLM ladder. But at best they’re misrepresenting or conflating their objectives and the Toys for Tots. At worst they’re preying on the goodwill and lack of curiosity of passers-by to separate them from their money in the name of a good cause.
This is why I usually stick with planned charitable donations, other than to people and causes I know.
If you would like to make a donation and be sure that it’s going to Toys for Tots, you can use their online form here.
If anyone knows more about 5th Dimension Promotionz and Toys for Tots or their other charity clients, feel free to comment below.
Tags: charity, philanthropy, trust, marketing, branding, consumer, culture, society, palo alto
March 26th, 2007 at 11:33 am
I may be able to offer some more details about how 5th Dimension Promotionz operates, unfortunately, it’s not encouraging. My background is as a recruiter in the professional services field and I am currently seeking employment in the Marcom industry and I responded to a craigslist posting that seemed legitimate enough for a marketing coordinator position. When I was invited to interview, I was not provided any information as to what the interview would include or who would be meeting with me and that was my first flag. I really expected to walk into a pyramid scheme gang style interview, which in hindsight may have been better. When I arrived, the office was hardly presentable. Paint was chipping, chairs were almost falling apart, the receptionist was blaring music, I was asked to complete a form that includes my birthday and SSN. I left it blank. I was then invited to meet with a woman named Lyndsey who was maybe 23 and claims to be the President and owner of 5DP yet when I ask her how she generates client leads she says “They take care of that.” Huh? When I ask her how she became an entrepreneur, she says she started in the San Diego office and then transferred to San Jose. Oh, and by the way, her tenure with 5DP totals no more than 18 months. Huh? Gee, sounds like a good gig. That was quick. Well, apparently the only “client” they have other than Toys for Tots, whom they “serve” only during the holidays is a non-profit called CPEA.
I was invited back for a second interview, which was today and was supposed to be a full day lasting from 9:30-6:30pm. I was told we were going to go to an “event” and I would have a chance to observe a top manager in the company and learn how it all works from the bottom up. I was 1 of 6 candidates invited to shadow at different “events” today and the competition is stiff so I should definitely try my hardest to be selected for the 3rd round. When it became obvious to me that I was going to be asked to ride in a car with the manager, I asked where we were going so I could drive separately and she would still not disclose the “event” location so I told her I wasn’t comfortable with the situation. Finally, she acquiesced and said she would explain the “opportunity” in full to me and I could decide if I was interested. Basically what it boiled down to is we would be driving to a Best Buy and finger printing little kids for CPEA (see their website: http://www.find-missing-children.org/about.htm)
but then trying to sell additional goods and services to their parents. Any sales made would earn us commission. I imagine the Toys for Tots gig worked the same way. They are doing something to promote the charity, but still selling something to earn a commission for themselves. The most aggravating thing to me isn’t that they are using legitimate charities to make money for themselves, it is that so many of the other candidates they sucker in spending a full day “interviewing” end up being free labor. They just don’t have the experience to know when to smell a rat. I am annoyed a wasted about 2 hours driving to their sh***y offices in San Jose on two separate occasions, but on the other hand, I am glad I have been exposed to yet another unthinkable scam that I can educate my friends, family and cyber-community about.
Beware of 5th Dimension Promotionz!
http://www.5thdimensionpromotions.com/ or http://fivedp.com/
April 19th, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Thank you so much for this message.
May 13th, 2007 at 6:59 am
Thank you for your candid and informed comments regarding 5TH DIMENSION PROMOTIONZ. Unfortunately, there are wolves out there representing themselves as sheep and as a result it becomes risky to donate to non-profits. Mr. Lee gives sound advice in checking out the charity and its affiliates BEFORE getting out your checkbook. I know first hand about being roped into a so-called non-profit’s scam as their business and administrative consultant. It rapidly became obvious that they were not a legitimate organization and further, I was now connected to them. A group of us went to the authorities. Even with the evidence that finally made it to the District Attorney’s office(among other authorities), no one seemed too interested in chasing these scam artists down and bringing them to justice. I think this particular band of thieves knew that they would not be prosecuted and acted accordingly. So sad that now it is “GIVER BEWARE!”. Legitimate organizaions suffer because of their illegal actions, which hurts us all.
May 13th, 2007 at 3:20 pm
Thanks so much about this! I was about to go to the follow up interview on monday. PHEW good thing I won’t be wasting my time on this crap. Kudos to you all who have informed everyone else.
May 30th, 2007 at 7:39 pm
Yeah, these “companies” are popping up everywhere, I wish I would have thought like that guy. I ended up wasting a whole day that I thought would be a worth while interview, being free labor. They get you when they say marketing and promotions, but you pretty much a trying to sell products to random unsuspecting customers infront of a Sam’s Club, walmart, publix, or where ever else they end up holding the “event”. I actually went to school and earned a degree in PR, so this was definitely not what I had in mind, and I felt pretty tricked into the second interview. This company by the way had several names but pretty much the same description and MO, located in Clearwater and Tampa, Fl.
June 18th, 2007 at 11:55 pm
Thank you all for your input. I was going to go to the interview tomorrow, but after doing some research on 5th Dimensions, I’m not going to waste any time tomorrow with these bastards.
June 22nd, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Thank you so much for all the information! A big thank you to Molly B.–I’ve been scouring the ‘net for hours looking for information on this company. They called and offered my husband a warehouse job, but I wanted to know more about them before driving all the way from San Diego to San Jose. You saved us a 10-hour drive and a lot of grief! Thanks again!
June 25th, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Wow. I’m so glad that I stumbled upon this. I have been looking for a job and sent my resume in to 5th Dimension Promotionz just last night because I am trying to get into Marketing. I received an email this morning that I was accepted for an interview and that I should call right away because there is a lot of competion. My first warning was that I received an email, rather than a phone call, but I reluctantly called anyways and I have an interview scheduled for tomorrow morning….well, I guess not now after reading this info! I was really skeptical, it all happened WAY to fast, as if they are desparate for employees. So I looked them up online and found no website, which was alarm #2 for me. I even told my husband that it just didn’t feel right to me, I’ve interviewed a lot in the past and I’ve never been given as little info about a company as I was given today, alarm #3. All I know is that I am supposed to meet with Lindsay (the aboved named in another posting). I had no idea what to expect, and already felt that I may be over qualified for what the pay would be (not that they said) but the other part of me felt that I would have to suck it up and get paid less if I wanted to start off fresh into Marketing. They said they would pay for my training too. Good thing I ran across this posting in my search to look up the company. All I have found are job postings and this blog…no legitimate website. Thanks to everyone who saved me from wasting my time tomorrow! It’s a shame to sucker in people who genuinely need a REAL job and waste their time.
June 28th, 2007 at 11:03 pm
Hello!
Like Molly, I was humiliated by going to one of their interviews and progressing into the second interview. Let me tell you about myself: I graduated from a highly accredited university majoring in Business Administration. I thought that this company was a legit so I went to the interviews. As it turns out, they were not! Like Molly, Lindsey interviewed me and it went by really fast and I felt that I would definently progress to the second round of interviews. And yes, I was given a call back! I went to the second interview and it was very terrible. They had me with a crass individual that was very arrogant. This certain individual (name and description will be excluded) felt that she knew everything and everyone is beneath this person. As Molly has stated, the event was to only be in front of a store and try to finger print children, even though they had not intention of fingerprinting–they were more interested in selling the products so they can make commission. As it turns out here is the breakdown of the proceeds: 20% goes back to the charity, 35% goes to the seller, and 45% goes to Lindsey (Lindsey needs to pay for fees pertaining to her business, maybe, I don’t know if her silent partner might pay for fees etc.) When I learned that only 20% was given back to charity, I knew that this job at this company was not for me. I mean come on! These are non profits that need 100 percent of proceeds! Its very disgusting how this company works. Also, this ‘business’ has not motivation or team meetings or any kind of meetings to boost up their performance. How do I know? The person I shadowed told me so. All in all, it seemed like working for this company would only give bad karma by lying to consumers and suck them out of their money and give less to the charity that needs more. As I learned, many of the workers there are not college graduates…if they were college graduates they would have known all operations of BUSINESS ETHICS!
July 3rd, 2007 at 10:49 pm
I really wish I read this before. I gone through the same process. I can’t believe that they frequently “interview” to find gullible college grads for FREE labor. This is the worst company ever. I agree with everyone here who saw what they are doing to everyone. Why can’t we do anything else about it? This company should pay for everyone’s loss. I wish I can figure out anything else but a lawsuit.
July 4th, 2007 at 8:53 am
If 5th dimensions promotionz stand in front of places like SAFEWAY groceries, then how much does Safeway earn?
They constantly said that there’s a contract between 5dp and Safeway when others wanted to use the the entrances too. Does Safeway really know who they are letting in front of their door? I saw MANY annoyed and generous donators who gave a LOT of cash. Many of them did NOT even take the items they paid for!!!
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20061118002034AAN4X6C
July 7th, 2007 at 5:24 am
[…] Later that night, I meet up with Frank, and he says he got a new job. After explaining what they do and the company he works for, it seemed kinda sketch. I start to google around and we turn up with another blog who had a similar experience. Ho John Lee ended up meeting someone from 5th Dimensions Productionz while walking out of a store, and after asking some basic questions, he walked away and didn’t donate. You could read his story via this link. While reading thru his site, the comments section included a person by the blog name of Molly B posted a comment on his site about her experience with the interview process and experiences. Here is an excerpt of what Molly mentioned: […]
July 8th, 2007 at 9:11 am
I received two calls in one day by two different “companies”. Apparently I was told by the caller to meet with Lyndsay!, and at the same address!
I called the first “company” back to check whom I was interviewed by…sadly it was no mistake. I was told that these two companies share the same office, although Lyndsay is their manager and not the other. I’m still slightly confused, but not enough to be fooled.
July 9th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
I received an email one morning from a recruiter and in the email it stated :
“To schedule an interview please give me a call…Due to the overwhelming response to our advertisements it is imperative that we schedule your
interview as soon as possible.”
At first I was happy that I have an interview, but when I called the number I was put on hold and no one picked up so I finally hung up after 15 minutes or so (I was having some doubts but wanted to find a job so I thought let me give it a try). I suddenly got a call back for an HR, and she told me to come in for an interview the next day and meet Lyndsay - corporate manager.
I went on Google to do some research about the company but could not find anything, so I called the office number HR had given to me, and the receptionists said she was really busy and could not tell me about the company. She gave me a website: http://www.5thdimensionpromotions.com/ or http://fivedp.com/(this site does not really work).
I am so glad that I found this website. I was having some bad feeling about this company because they sent me an email instead of calling, the interview was set for the very next day, even though many many prospective employees were applying and there was a little information about the company. They also have many posting on many job websites like hotjobs/careerbuilder/monsters.
July 11th, 2007 at 4:14 am
Im afraid im one of the suckers that got tricked into being their free labor. worst part is,is that i DID put my SSN on their phony paper work. What should I do?
July 12th, 2007 at 7:27 am
The best thing I know is to make sure you know your credit history. Keep up with your score and make sure nothing else is opened up or signed under your SSN. You should seek some legal advice. There are plenty of free legal advices at courthouses and non-profit agencies (no pun intended) that can help you out. I dont know why they ask for SSN on an application, on which if they want to a background check you would have to sign under a statement saying they will do a credit check. Hope it all works out.
July 28th, 2007 at 9:22 am
Ha, thank you all!!! I have an appointment on Monday with 5DimensionsPromotions that I will be sure to miss. I am desperate to find a job, but I don’t need this trash.
I am 55 yrs old and have gotten no offers. I was so excited to finally get a response and I learn it is this malarky!
Back to the drawing board.
August 3rd, 2007 at 8:51 am
I also received the email. THANK YOU ALL!! I was actually going to call for the interview, since I’ve been looking for a marketing position. I was also looking for a website and couldn’t find anything. I ended up finding these blogs. I’m so glad I did. Thanks so much!!!
August 10th, 2007 at 6:49 pm
Thank you so much for all your inputs. I found the job on hotjobs, sent in my resume, got an email to call a numbers, but I didn’t so they called me. I was schedule to have a meeting with Lyndsay this upcoming Monday, but after reading through all these posts, I think I will be skipping the interview and spend my time doing something else better. I am glad to find this posting.
August 10th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
This company NEW DIRECTION PROMOTIONS call me for an interview, furthermore I meet with them as well they said I was fit for there company and I was to received a phone call around 5:00pm for a second interview the next days from 9:30am to 6:00pm. The next day I told go with this two members and drive to a certain location, obviously I was skeptical so I ask questions and they just told all my questions would be answer at the middle of the day. I was surprise how anxious they were to sell the product and promoting Child Protection Education of America Inc ( CPEA) and touching people’s hearts in order to sell the products. I was excited to work for this company until they told me they scam payment plan moreover the money would come from the products for every thing also get paid 200 to 300 a week for six months and driving around all over the place and later on I would make 100k in one year and more opportunities.
. http://www.newdirectionpromos.com
August 11th, 2007 at 5:30 am
Tell all your friends and family about this company. And the scam they are doing in the name of charity. And if you, or your friends and family see them in front of stores, ask to speak to the managers and tell them about the scam this company does. Speak your mind and tell others to bring this company down and expose them for the scam that it is.
September 17th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Thank You very much for the extremely great info!
)
I had sent my resume to them and received an email stating I was selected for an interview and to call to schedule an appointment. I’m so glad I came across this article.I’m am a student majoring in communications and i wanted to try and start to get some experience under my belt. They defiantly got me with the entry level PR and Marketing, will train crap. Thanks Again and of course will not be calling for that interview
September 19th, 2007 at 1:14 pm
I am yet another person who almost went to an interview!! When I couldn’t find their website, I googled it and came to this site. Based on the limited information I received on the phone, I figured something was up. When something is to good to be true it usually is, eh? Thanks all of you!
September 20th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Just like others, I found a job posting on one of the agency for a marketing position. I was a recent college grade with a degree in Business. I got a call for an interview. I went in and filled out the form, but the office was strange looking and everyone had to wait for at least 45 minutes until they get to their interview. Yup, it was this person Lyndsay who interviewed me. Just couple of basic questions, and the interview was over. I felt weird. This interview was even simple then the interview I gave at Mc Donalds for a summer job during high school. Lyndsay says she will call back to let me know if I qualified for a second interview. I got called back the same day and she said I was qualified. I went back the next day at 9 AM, and I was introduced to a person name Stephanie, a 19 year old girl working for this company. First thing she told me to do is turn of my cell phone. Second question was, if I have a college degree? I answered, you are suppose to already know that as you are holding my resume right here in front of me. Again as other, I went on a ride with her, she explains me about the whole event, and how we meet the clients, how we work with them and some marketing strategies? She pulled over in the parking lot of Albertsons. All we did was set up a table in front of Albertsons, catching people coming out of Albertsons. I felt so horrible to be somewhere totally unexpected. Within an hour, I was tempted to call a cab to take me home from there. I stayed till lunch. She told me during lunch that within year and half, you can reach up to the level of making $100,000 per year. This just reminded me of those MLM money making schemes. I was interested in knowing how much we make now? Answer was about $300 per month. That is based only on commission, not hourly or anything. It was a complete ridiculous. First of all, using it as a charity program, but putting 80% of the money in your pocket. Giving people idea of some high level marketing jobs, but just stand in front of a store all day and try to catch shoppers of which ever store it is. Stephanie started giving me weird looks, and was completely unfriendly as she was realizing I have no interest in this. She thought that she was doing the best thing in the world. Also, she had no college education, and there was no point of her asking me if I had a college degree as you do not even need high school education for such things. I ended up staying all day. I wish I had seen this site before, but to the people considering 5th dimensions promotionz, just stay out of it.
September 27th, 2007 at 11:04 pm
Hey guys,
I just wanted to thank you all for your great info. You saved me about $30 in gas money and 10 hours of my life. We should work together and bring these rotten bastards down! There must be a way…
September 30th, 2007 at 11:15 am
Thank you everyone for the information, I have been duped by similar scam artists before, expecting a completely differnt atmosphere and wasted all day walking around parking lots in humiliation, when looking for a job the description they put is incredibly misleading, I’m glad to find out more about these crooks and will not be going to the “interview”, it’s very shameful that they take advantage of not only job seekers but people with kind hearts as well. I hope the law catches up with them soon.
October 4th, 2007 at 6:46 pm
Watch out for The Merrimack group and SF Marketing group…They are the same type of companies!
October 16th, 2007 at 9:01 am
thanks a lot. I just wanted to learn about the company 5dp and now I know its a scam. Good heavens, I knew it before I went for the interview today.
October 17th, 2007 at 1:27 pm
I just got back from one of these all-day “second interviews.” I wish I had found these posts first. It’s ridiculous! My experience was similar to the others here. The point of contact listed in all the job postings and the web site was Alexis Davis, and I don’t think she even exists. Every time I called, I was told that Alexis was not in, but that the receptionist could schedule the interview with me, etc. The name of the company in Savannah is North Wind Promotions. Look out!
October 22nd, 2007 at 7:19 pm
Thanks for the heads up.
I will not be attending my interview tomorrow.
October 25th, 2007 at 7:34 am
I had an interview yesterday with The Merrimack Group. They made it sound like a completely amazing job. Entry level marketing, good clients, etc.
The interview was very short. About 10-15 minutes, and there were no direct questions about the job or any direct information given. The building that the office is in is NOT the one pictured on their website. The actual office is in a tiny building in poor condition, the offices are small and there were only 3 rooms total. The receptionists were girls that looked to be about 17 and were wearing really casual clothing. I was asked to come back and spend a full day (8:45 to 6:00) “shadowing” a member today. After doing online research and finding nothing about the company other than job postings on various websites and a few sites saying it’s a scam, I called it off.
It sounded too good to be true from the start, and that should have let me know something was up.
October 30th, 2007 at 6:01 am
Amen. I had a first interview with The Merrimack Group and they had a VERY brief interview with me and setup a second day of training(8:45-6:00PM). After reading this post at 6AM this morning, i’m pretty angry and definitely not going. I had the same EXACT experience as the last poster, as far as the girls being young and casual, the building not being a giant black shiny one(instead being a ganky white building behind kinkos), and no material relating to the job. They also shy’d away when I twice asked them direct questions about the performance pay. Thanks for the information guys, saved me some gas and some study time(as I actually have an advertising midterm tomorrow, lol).
-Brandon
November 8th, 2007 at 2:30 pm
Yikes! I found 5th Dimension Promotionz online and they made it sound like it was a good opportunity. I am about to graduate from a great school and am looking for event work in the Bay… I thought this job might be good as an internship so I called to find out how I can apply. Some rude woman told me that the girl I need to talk to already left but she can schedule an interview for me TOMORROW. I thought that was a red flag already because she didn’t ask for any information about me at all and had time available for an interview anytime between ten and four. Weird. I can totally imagine showing up at some crappy office and being taken to a Best Buy or Safeway to do free work for them… so not happening. Thank you SO much for providing information on this company, I am definitely not driving home tomorrow just to waste my time!
Much appreciated!
November 20th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
Holy crap! I’m glad I’m smart and googled 5 dimension Promotionz, and found this page. I have interview with the infamous Lindsey tomorrow morning. Screw that! Thanks internet Gods!
November 20th, 2007 at 12:49 pm
is there some way we can inform the job sites of this fraud?
December 3rd, 2007 at 3:01 pm
beware, 5th dimensions promotionz has expanded, they have a partner called sierra promotion concepts. same office same number. so glad i stumbled across this page. beware of this company.
January 14th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Thank goodness I found this page! I was going to do the same thing and call them for an interview! Thanks so much for all your input!
February 7th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Thank you for saving me all the time and effort of finding this out.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
I am sure Jr Promotionz in Grand Rapids MI is the same exact thing. I too went to an interview. OMG! I declined the 2nd interview because I smelled a scam!
February 14th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
I am sure Jr Promotionz in Grand Rapids MI is the same exact thing. I too went to an interview. OMG! I declined the 2nd interview because I smelled a scam!
February 14th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
[…] Later that night, I meet up with Frank, and he says he got a new job. After explaining what they do and the company he works for, it seemed kinda sketch. I start to google around and we turn up with another blog who had a similar experience. Ho John Lee ended up meeting someone from 5th Dimensions Productionz while walking out of a store, and after asking some basic questions, he walked away and didn’t donate. You could read his story via this link. While reading thru his site, the comments section included a person by the blog name of Molly B posted a comment on his site about her experience with the interview process and experiences. Here is an excerpt of what Molly mentioned: […]
February 25th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
WOW! wth is up with this company. I had just finished a preliminary interview from this company today. I knew a lot of things were wrong with this business. First of all, the website that 5th dimension promotions had created seemed to be very sketchy. From the previous postings I had noticed that people have said that this company didn’t have a website. I did research on the company and found their website. In seeing that they have a nice page I would have expected the company to be a very large and profitable business. Though when I got to the location in San Jose, I was stunned to find it in a business park in a small office with a receptionist trying to flirt with me while the office was bumpin’ Billy Jean by Michael Jackson on the stereo! I just figured that this was a laid back kind of company… Everything that everyone else says is true, the interviewer brings u into a room and does like a 5-10 minute interview, and sez that she’ll call you back if they decide to choose you because of the great amount of traffic they have with applicants. I had just got the call-back for the 2nd interview while I had stumbled upon this blog. I AM SO HAPPY I FOUND THIS BLOG! This saves me from wasting my whole day with the nonsense that they have to try to sell to me. I aint spending a whole day in front of a fricken bestbuy or safeway… come on! SAFEWAY!?!?!?!
This really takes a toll on the people that really need to find a JOB. I feel really sorry for this one Indian lady I had seen filling out an application, she looks like a mother trying to support her children. I had also seen another Mexican woman looking like she had needed to start a new career and was soo excited to had been called in.
Please help to expose these people, you can also let people know and warn them on this website ripoffreport.com
February 29th, 2008 at 8:57 am
I was duped recently at my local Safeway and ended up buying the id and medical emergency “kits”. When I got home, there was nothing in the packages except written information for me to fill out and THEN send to an out-of-state company for processing. I fell for the scam because I wanted to help the “non-profit” organization find missing children. I have an 18-month daughter and I just wanted to protect her, but I realized later that I could have her fingerprints processed at my local police department. I paid $75 for the 2 kits and an overpriced child’s safety board game.
March 4th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Thanks to all u guys for the input, my wife did get an interview call and that too from “Lindsay” and doing google on the company brought me to this page. After reading i called my wife and told her to forget about this company and it is a big hoax ..
March 4th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
I went in for my first interview today. I had to drive out to San Jose and yes the place is trashy. This was my first real job interview so i was excited. The interview was only about 10 min. and i did meet with Lindsay. She is probably 28 i would say. I was excited to get the call back for the second interview but thought it weird that it would be from 9:30 to 6:30. They were saying that they work long days and saturday and that they are opening up a new branch so there would be lots of advancement opportunities. They needed managers and so on… Any way thanks for the posting i will not be going to my second interview and giving them free labor while trying to sell stuff by exploting peoples generosity. But on the bright side, the reseptionist was hot and was flurty so going into the first interview wasn’t a compleat waste.
March 12th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Thanks everyone for their comments. I’ve had to be extra careful after using hotjobs and careerbuilder and such. I had a response from Terra Wholesale, saying “because of the overwhelming something something call us to schedule an appointment…” just like a blogger in these posts said. Does anyone know them? I was thinking of 5dp but obviously not anymore. I received responses from three or four places, and they all seem to use similar tactics. They always start by saying “after reviewing your resume” and then they ask for a resume with all my contact info. That raised a flag when I received a response from Regionaljobbank.com, on behalf of a major company. I went to the actual website of that company and the qualifications and responsibilities, and the company’s description were the same, half ways, and they have postings on behalf of many other companies from McDonalds to Lockheed Martin. So I contacted the actual company and they immediately replied saying that was a scam. So avoid regional job bank. It was also weird that they ask for your cell phone, and cell phone carrier. These scammers make monster and all those websites difficult to use.
March 19th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
FYI, this company is not a scam. if you guys are open minded enough, if one of you guys stay and put up with it for a least 2 weeks, you’d understand how this business works. It is true that %5 goes straight to the charity that this marketing firm works with….but 5% is actually pretty generous compared to the bracelets you buy at stores supporting breast cancer (they give 3%) if u help out to stop poverty with whole foods… are you aware that only 1% goes straight to the organization? A marketing firm is a for profit company…..it’s there to teach people how to market themselves to become successful but at the same time helping out a charity so we can feel good about ourselves and so that we don’t feel greedy….if you still think that it’s a scam….read this website: http://www.csrwire.com/News/8617.html Quantum Event Marketing is the mother company of 5th Dimension Promotionz along with alot of other even marketing firms. there’s over 100 offices around america raising money for CPEA….an average office makes about $18,000/week (low-balling it)…multiply that by 120 offices that’s raising for the same charity…..5% is actually alot of money…if you don’t believe me, the article will tell you. Obviously not many of you know the meaning of entrepreneurship…… Diligence, Persistance, Heart, Time, Passion….without any of these things….you basically have a employee mind set.
March 22nd, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I answered an ad in Career builder for 5th Dimension. I received a very nice email back stating that they had the following positions open, and would love to interview me.
Event Marketing Assistant, Manager Assistant, Customer Service, Event Coordinator and Public Relations
I went in for the 1st interview which lasted for all of 10 minutes (after waiting in the lobby for 45 minutes). I was jazzed about the position however. Event coordination is right up my alley, and the fact that they are raising money for charities such as DARE and CPEA, WOW! What more could a girl ask for.
I was called back for a 2nd interview the following day. This would be an on the job training type interview, to see if I was really interested in the position. Cool… I can deal with that, after all it is a cause I really believe in. Well folks, that is the end of the happy story.
I am asked to ride to the ‘event’ with my interviewer and the new hire she was training. On the way there, I begin asking questions about the company. What kind of ‘event’ are we going to. No answer, rather questions. ‘What is the difference between direct marketing and indirect marketing’. I answer, and my answer is met with approval and more information about all the fundraising activities they do, and the partnerships they have with Disney, Warner Bros. etc.
I’m so excited about their work, and so engaged with talking to my interviewer, I forget to pay attention to where we are going. We get there, and the first thing that happens is I am given a book to review while they ’set-up’. Oh, by the way, I have learned we will be doing direct marketing outside of a Lucky store in the ‘Cambrian district’.
I step inside the Lucky and sit in the Starbucks area reading the information and taking notes. After all, I have been told to ask lots of questions, and based on the quality of my questions, it will determine whether or not I get the informative lunch interview.
I read the information, which is mostly about how other companies are laying off etc. The information that is included about the parent company ‘Innovage’, makes it quite clear that the goal is for this to become a MLM with many branch companies underneath. Red flag #1.
I finish reading the information and return to the table outside. The nifty little trainer lady tells me to just watch what they are doing. Next thing I know she is quizzing me on the 5 steps she is completing. Ok… I’m watching, I tell her step #1 is to engage. ‘No, it is to introduce yourself’. Duh… engaging someone basically means that you are getting someones attention by introducing yourself.
Anyway… as the morning drags on, I notice that they are offering the items to people for different prices. I ask about it, and am given the whole story about margins etc…. Red Flag #2. Ok, usually you try to get full price, then allow people to bargain with you.
So finally I get to start asking my questions. My question #1 - How much out of what you collect, actually goes back to charity. Answer - 5%. My jaw must have dropped because she didn’t miss a beat when telling me how much they raise and that it doesn’t matter that they only give back 5% because they still raised $3M dollars. Hmmmm… BIG RED FLAG.
Then a lady comes out of the store and basically rips us a new one and explains about recent scams in the area that are only giving 10% back to the charities. WOW I think to myself, that is double what we are giving back.
I spent about 10 more minutes watching and mulling over all my new facts and told my interviewer this job was not for me. She was cordial, and said that is why they do the interview that way. She told me I now have 3 options. 1. Call a friend to come get me. 2. Take a taxi home at my own expense. 3. Hang out with them for the day and she would give me a ride back to my car.
I said I would find my own way home. My original intention was to simply walk as I had left my cell phone at home and didn’t have any phone numbers with me. I walked for about 5 minutes before realizing, I didn’t know where the hell I was or how to get home. I walked to a corner to find street signs, found a phone a called my friend.
My poor friend probably thought I had been raped or something as all that came out was ‘Will you please come and get me I am stranded. I don’t have my phone or my car, this is where I am, I’ll explain when you get here’.
Luckily she got there fairly quickly and I soon recovered from my stranding.
NEVER EVER let your interviewer take you in their car to some unknown destination. If the won’t allow you to follow them, run on home and thank your lucky stars.
5% back to the charity is not nearly enough in my book and it is my sincere hope that someone will look into this SCAM of a company.
Sure wish I had seen this blog BEFORE my day of torture.
March 25th, 2008 at 8:47 am
To the Unknown user post on March 19th, 2008 at 9:02 pm…
First of all, you see all these posts where everyone calls it a scam because everyone here is misguided. We all had a frustrating experience of doing some free labor for you. Your 5DP posted job adds on carrerbuilder, monster claiming an internship program, opportunity for recent college grads, event coordinator, event marketing etc. Now, where do you see this as an internship? where do you see an event? How can this be an opportunity for college grads when you do not even need a high school education for such work? Recent college grads do not go to college to do this type of work.
you say your firm is out there to teach people how to market themselves? Let me tell you, marketing involves tons of strategies, there are several different market segments that people have to learn. People cannot learn marketing by just standing in front of the store, catching shoppers for donation. Another reason, it’s a scam is because people who do donate believe all of their money is going into charity. How about letting the individual know that only 5% of your money will reach CPEA? You think they would still donate? I do not think so. Of course CPEA will accept a donation from you. They get the donation that’s all matters to them. Where did you get that money? They do not know or will bother to know. What Diligence, Persistance, Heart, Time, Passion are you talking about here? Why don’t you explain us? I do not know about the bracelets for cancer you are talking about, but it seems there are in the same boat as 5DP which is not too far from sinking…
March 25th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Is Paradigm Events Inc (http://www.paradigamevents.net)
similar to 5th Dimensionz Promotionz??
You know there is an another website for Paradigm Events Inc..(http://www.paradigamevents.com). Which is located in Canada.
Please tell me is Paradigm Events Inc (http://www.paradigamevents.net) is anything like 5th Dimensions Promotionz
March 25th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
is Paradigm Evens Inc (http://www.paradigmevents.net)
like 5th dimensions promotionz??
there is an another website with the exact name, Paradigm Events but their website is (http://www.paradigmevents.com)
April 1st, 2008 at 10:37 pm
Thanks a Million to all, I went through the same crap for 5th Dimension Promotionz, interviewed with Lindsey at San Jose & I was called to for the 9.30 - 6.30 process tomorrow. Thanx to all of you, you saved my whole day, in fact I was about to turn down another offer for this.
April 7th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Thought all of you might find this amusing. I just happened to run across this blog because I was searching an address on the Internet and found that 5th Dimension Promotionz used to be at this address. Well, looks like this place has closed down in San Jose because the space is available for lease. Which I am considering. In any case, hope that those of you who wasted your time with them now feel better that they are no longer there. Good luck with your job searches!
April 10th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Maybe the San Jose building is closed but they have an office in Santa Clara. Had an interview scheduled for today @ 2 p.m. Thank God I read this blog just in time to cancel my interview and save myself from such crap people…
April 16th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
This was the lovely email I received this morning. After reviewing their website and speaking with their ‘HR dept/ receptionists’ I realized something wasn’t right here. Thanks for blogging this scam.
After carefully reviewing your resume, we here at
5DP would like to congratulate you, for you have
been selected for a preliminary interview.
5th Dimension Promotionz develops and executes
innovative marketing campaigns for high profile clients
in the San Jose area. Recently expanding into the area,
we are currently interviewing candidates for several
openings available on our team. Those openings currently
include Event Marketing Assistant, Manager Assistant, Customer
Service, Event Coordinator and Public Relations. For more
information about us and our available openings please visit
our website at: www.5thdimensionpromotions.com.
The preliminary interview is a one-on-one interview
with our directing manager. You will be meeting
with Lindsey Barnes and your interview will be
conducted here in our San Jose location, so please make
note of the address listed below.
Please contact Michelle Ross at (408) 727 -1110
to schedule your interview right away.
Once again, Congratulations!
Thank you in advance for your interest and your time.
Sincerely,
Michelle Ross
HR Department
5th Dimension Promotionz, Inc.
2998 Scott Blvd
Santa Clara, CA 95054
Off: 408-727-1110
Fax: 408-727-1115
www.5thdimensionpromotions.com
April 28th, 2008 at 10:21 pm
God bless the internet!.. I just recieved my congratulations letter tonight and checked out the website… Like someone above said, it seemed sketchy so I googled further… Thank you to all of you who posted your horror stories! You have saved several of us…May good karma come your way…
June 3rd, 2008 at 9:17 pm
I wish I would have found this page before my horrible day I just went through today!!!!!!!! WHAT DID I GET OUT OF THIS??? A HEADACHE, SORE FEET FROM STANDING IN HEELS ALL DAY, AND OH YEAH A COMPLETE WASTE OF MY ENTIRE DAY..
June 3rd, 2008 at 10:10 pm
WOW. Another dumbass (me) over here. I basically spent the whole day outside Safeway selling their “new client” Victoria Jackson cosmetics (i dont even know who the fuck she is) to support Operation Smile. There were so many shady things but I just blew it off because I needed a job so badly.
Well we all know about Lyndsey, so I will just start with my second “interview”.
FIRST: the first shady thing was when my “trainer” asked me right before we got into the car if I brought a copy of my resume. I don’t know wtf he was thinking bc when I looked in his hand THERE WAS MY RESUME that I had handed in for the first interview.
SECOND: during the car ride he asked me stupid questions that only apparently has one specific answer to each question. then he said to be sure to take notes b/c i will be tested on it later. i idiotically took notes.
THIRD: when we arrived, we went to the safeway manager place and told them we were setting up. i think it was supposed to be “important” but they didnt care at all.
FOURTH: i felt like the dumbest person in the world b/c i actually dressed business formal while standing outside the entrance of safeway HASSLING people.
FIFTH: many prices didn’t match. i didn’t understand. but i didn’t care anymore b/c i knew this job wasn’t for me. my trainer was teaching me how to greet people, and how we can’t ask yes/no answers bc people usually say no. -_- gee i wonder why.
SIXTH: after a whole day of shit, for some weird reason another trainer who came with us asked me to go with her to “check out”. i didn’t get why she couldnt do it alone.. so when we went to the manager place, she was like, “i just wanted to talk to _name_ to let her know we’re checking out”. they did not give a shit.
SEVENTH: when i got back, i was made to fill out a questionnaire. when it asked what the least favorite part of the day was, i said “getting out of my comfort zone to hassle people”. 5 min after i submitted it for my trainer and “Loo” to discuss, (I think Loo is lyndsey but i’m not sure), my trainer brought me outside to talk to me about all the “mistakes” i did on my questionnaire/test. they were circled in red marker. he circled the word “hassle” and wrote PROBLEM next to it. then he told me “you know, hassle is very negative. did you really think I was hassling them?” i lied b/c i felt bad saying he was. then he said Loo was unsure whether or not I am qualified, so I needed to give 3 things that make me different from other interns. I gave 2 b/c I couldn’t think of a third one. and I didn’t care. Then he told me to give him three reasons why I wanted this job. I gave him bullshit.
He immediately then asked me when I’d be available for the job. i told my trainer i needed ONE DAY to “discuss with my mom” when its just a reason to decline if i were offered. my trainer immediately said “you know, between two interviewees we will hire the person who is most available to us.” Then I said, I still needed to discuss with her. He asked me, “Is this your decision or is it your mom’s.” That made me really annoyed and I told him “It’s ultimately mine but I take my mom’s opinions very seriously.” He knew I was annoyed so he became very nice again and said “of course very understandable.”
Then he went back and came out. He told me the last “space” is already filled for a summer intern, and that if I really wanted the job I will have to email Lindsey by tomorrow noon 3 reasons why I deserve the job and why I wanted to work there. they wouldnt even give me ONE DAY??? Geez. Anywho. I said fine and left.
what a horrible day.
June 3rd, 2008 at 10:13 pm
Thanks you u guys…..I also received the same mail today morning, and when I called them in the afternoon I was told the interview is tomorrow, which was a flag#1 for me. when I tried to ask any more questions the person hung up on me….flag # 2. But still I started preparing for interview, and in the process stumbled across this page. Now I am not going there.
last week at safeway as we were coming out one lady came to us and told us abt the charity for lost chindren and asked us to buy two shirts for just 20 dollars. The whole time she was looking at my son, so I caved in and bought the t-shirts. so beware…..they are just waiting for u…
June 4th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Wow! im sitting here in my suit ready to interview for a good cause!
Wow! Thank God for you guys! I can’t tell you how depressing it is to sit here and get hasseled by people like this.
It’s as if not having a job isn’t bad, they have to toy with your emotions too.
June 6th, 2008 at 1:12 am
Lindsey as president of the company?!? To young to be one.
Lobby area…music blasted really loud. Unprofessional.
You guys are all right about this company.
June 16th, 2008 at 12:15 am
visit www.anissaroth.com, click on Portfolio.
You’ll notice that most of the links on the left side are broken, but if you write down the names of the companies that flash through the preview pane, you’ll find that they are all carbon copies of 5dp with different names.
June 16th, 2008 at 12:33 am
On second thought maybe that’s not such a good idea…
www.newdawndistributioninc.com tried to give my pc a few viruses.
June 16th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
Thank god for this blog! I also received the email from them and when I didn’t call them back, they called me to set up an interview. I went to their website and my nephew could’ve done a better job on creating the website than what they had!
I felt like there was something wrong with this company and apparently I was right.
Well, I better go and cancel my interview for tomorrow afternoon before I have to also give 3 reasons why I should be hired!!!
June 16th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Well… Here’s the thing with charity organizations, especially the ones into marketing. They have no souls. And yes I like charity organizations, because it’s a way for people to feel that they are doing something good and they sleep better at night, while I pad up my pockets. And I know how charity organizations are, famous ones like breast cancer awareness? They give a whopping 1 % to the breast cancer society which then gives half of that to actual research?
These people have to eat too. And in an economy as volatile as this, I’ll take anything. But I will not work for free. I expect to be paid for my efforts, including wasting my time on a second interview if that is the case. Donate cars to charity? The people who needs it will probably see a nickle’s worth of it while I work to keep my place. I’m in a 1 BR apartment that I pay 1000 a month for, these bills don’t pay for themselves. I don’t even own any furniture because I don’t make enough money! So… I do not work for free, and I know all about charity organizations. They’re all the same.
I don’t care, I’ll join the soulless bastards, at least it helps these rich fools sleep better at night as I take their money away from their hands being that they’re the ones that’s contributing to the bankruptcy of the US.
June 17th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
I don’t understand why everyone is hating against direct marketing. I use to work with lindsey in 5dp. Actually I think what she does is smart. The best way to market something is to do it yourself in person. Commercials and billboards are hardly remembered. Even then, they don’t make me impulsed to purchase something right then and there. i’m easily impulsed for anything if someone pitch’s me right. At least they help different charities and make money at the same time. What’s wrong with that? The only reason I left was because I physically cannot stand on my feet for more than a few hours at a time due to stress fractures from flat feet. Other than that, i’d still be there doing it. you guy’s gotta be open minded and see the opportunity. Believe me, i’ve done the research from top down. It works for some, but not for all. you guys don’t have to rip on it though, just cuz it didn’t work for you. ya know?
June 23rd, 2008 at 11:43 pm
When I first graduated from college this was one of the first offers I received. Initially they looked like a legit company, but the selection process was a little bit too much for such a low starting pay. I spent my day in front of Trader Joe’s in Campbell asking for donations and selling I.D. kids to help missing kids. It seemed like a good cause, but of course I wouldn’t know how the contract or structure actually workd. Anyhow, I’m glad I didn’t take the job. I mean I’m making more now with much lesser stress. The funny part is, this was nearly a year ago and they continue to post on monster/careerbuilder/craigslist with the same punch lines. So I would assume the rentention rate must be very low. It’s not worth it, while the person at the top is making 6 figures, you’re making like 1/5 that amount if that. Seriously, I would not recommend 5dp unless it is something that you really like doing and I can’t stress the really like part enough.
June 29th, 2008 at 6:34 am
Hey Guys,
I remember, I did this exact same thing. I went on the interview and had a horrible second interview and the trainer was a complete idiot that didn’t know a thing about marketing. Like Mr. Dibbs, I have to say that only do 5dp if you really want to do it and if you don’t have a college education (sorry the pun, but its true). The person that trained me never finished college and knew nothing about marketing. She also tried to educate me on marketing, even when I told her a few weeks ago, I just graduated with a Marketing Degree from a university. She only knew the difference between direct and indirect marketing, as for marketing management, she knew nothing. She didn’t even know the basics of marketing. So, it is very important for a person to have an education to figure out the idea of these MLM schemes. Be careful, and don’t get sucked in. Don’t worry, even though, last year was hard, I can tell you now that with patience your dream job does come. I am only 24 and I am making in the high five figures, and when I say hi, I mean much higher than the 5dp ‘leaders’ are making. Don’t worry, just be patient and the job will come. Also, if you are looking to find a job like 5dp, but don’t want to be apart of their scandalous scams, try The Nielsen Group. Nielsen Research Group is a marketing firm that deals with media and its outlets. What you basically do is similar to the 5dp, but you are part of a world-wide recognized company, doing marketing that will allow you to do management, operations, finance, and allow you to transfer anywhere around the world. So if youw ant your start, try The Nielsen Group! And the last time I checked, about 5minutes ago, Nielsen is currently hiring for Marketing/Account Representatives for the Bay area and Sacramento/Stockton/Modesto area. You do almost the same as 5dp, but better. And heck its worldwide (and also in the entertainmetn industry, visit their website, you will not be disappointed)! The potential there is better and you will get paid no matter what! And if you outpreform yourself, you get a huge bonus! Trust me, I did it before I got the job at HP! Its one of those companies that if you work there for a good time, and develop new skills you can almost be guaranteed first interviews if you decide to leave the company.
Well thats just my take. For those looking for a job and seeing about 5dp and their scams, don’t waste your time. Try Nielsen or something. Why am I posting this? Well, I was one of those naive persons tha went to the second interviews and for those researching on 5dp, avoid it and try to get an interview with a company like Nielsen (also, they provide you with a car!).
Peace out and I hope this out for the job seekers!
June 29th, 2008 at 6:55 am
Oh yeah one other note about the nielsen group, not only that it is better, you have the chance to climb up the latter with your outcome of work! You can start out as a representative and be area coordinator or manager in about 6 months to a year. So you are not wasting your time. Also, the pay is based pay with bonuses if you can get more people to use the Nielsen Service (this job is not commission like 5dp or the marketing group based in san francisco). Don’t fall into the scams, if you want to do direct marketing or start out with marketing best to do it with a respected company and recognized worldwide and will give potential of completing long term goals (to those that have to pay bills and want to advance in thier careers). Visit their website: www.nielsen.com Its a huge company don’t get nervous about it. Oh yeah, make sure you list your college education—which I think only college gradutes can apply. Peace out!
July 3rd, 2008 at 9:30 am
Hello Everyone,
I found the same thing with Paradigm Events. Apparently they work the same way. Please don’t trust these companies.
July 17th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
1. This is not a scam, its called a pyramid scheme where you move up through recruiting suckers…i.e. people who work all day for free. (5% goes to charity, 95% administrative fees)
2. Its not really for a good cause, its for yourself, and if you are greedy and don’t have morals this is a great job for you.
3. It isn’t illegal, people volunteering their money, that isn’t illegal, but they are stupid. Most people don’t have the heart to say no to a nice looking girl or a guy in a suit. They feel inferior.
4. Many companies are like this and they aren’t for everyone, but this is the least of our worries as far as ethics. all you people are venting, which I would too, but it was your choice to stay their all day, I walked HOME and got a ride to my car in Santa Clara on Scott Blvd.
5. VERY UNPROFESSIONAL, NIGGA THIS BITCH THAT BLEARING IN THE LOBBY FROM HE SLUTTY RECEPTIONIST WHO TALKED ABOUT DRUGS WITH ME… and I LOVE RAP TOO!!!!!!!!! Still offended.
6. IF you are VERY desperate and need money and don’t mind making like 8$ an hour for a 54 hour week this is your gig.
7. If you have a college degree. please have some fucking pride, these people are full of greed.
August 21st, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I believe that this ‘virus’ has spread! I was looking for a job in the Central Illinois area, and saw a similar listing of jobs advertised… The name, however, was not 5th Dimension Promotions, but rather ID Promotionz. The common factor, of course, is the misspelled “Promotionz” in the name. I was only lucky enough to find this page when doing a search for ID Promotionz… And found many ‘companies’ with teh misspelled Promotionz. Figuring that the name couuldn’t be that much of a coincidence… I clicked. And am glad that I did.
Thank you all who have taken the time to provide your stories. I’m sorry to hear about your adventure… But know that you’ve saved many from the same fate! I KNEW it just sounded too good to be true… Maybe someday I’ll learn to listen to that little voice. I wish you the best of luck on your job searches.
September 12th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Thank you all so much for your input. I too found this horrendous job on careerbuilder a supposedly legitimate job finding site (filled more with temp agencies than actual jobs). I called and have an interview set up with this “Lindsay” on Monday as well! Thank God I didn’t waste my time or money putting my son in daycare for this scam!
September 14th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
You all in the San Jose area will find this funny. All of you who met with “Lindsay” at 5DP who was the “VP”. Well, I saw her out side of Trader Joe’s doing yet another flaky charity table. This time she was actually out of the street at the table though. This time it was selling make-up to help kids with clef pallet surgery. The funny thing was I knew I recognized her from somewhere, and as she tried her little “oh you can still help with buying a t-shirt” it hit me. I actually started to chuckle on the spot! I guess the VP position at 5DP isn’t working out, or maybe shes on her 2nd company now… who knows.
September 16th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Good lookin out y’all. I interviewed today and was hesitating on going to the 2nd tomorow. Recent college grad lookin for an entry level position. I could tell by the 22 or some old dude working at the san jose office that I had a better resume than any of their ‘managers’. Could tell it was bullshit. But adter reading the blog, I knwew for sure that this is some horsecrap. I would rather bus tables than do this shit. They dont pay you enough for the shit it sounds like you go through. Peace 5th Dimentionz. Hello Red Robin.
September 16th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
Oh yeah….I gave them my fuckin ss# b-day full name all that shit… If I get identity theft I’ll go back and kick some fuckin asses.
October 3rd, 2008 at 12:32 pm
WISH I HAD FOUND THIS SITE AND MANY OTHERS…I WORK THERE FOR LIKE 5 DAYS AND REALIZED SOMETHING WAS WORNG…NEVER RECEIVED MY PAY CHECK (THEY NEVER SEND MY CHECK THROUGH MAIL)
October 3rd, 2008 at 10:17 pm
Holy crap. You’re experiences are mirroring mine! I was called 1 day after my interview and was told to shadow some girl named Erica from 9a-6p. So, we got in her car (skeptical at this point, but I still thought it was legit), drove 50 miles up to Greenville, MI Wal-Mart and set up a table to “sell” things for the D.A.R.E. program. About 2 hours into it, Erica started changing the prices on customers. A little beach ball went from $5 all of a sudden to $7. I was really uncomfortable. So, I decided to call my fiance (who lives 60 miles away) and told him to get me the F out of there. Luckily, I didn’t put my SSN down. It’s a complete scam. DON’T FALL FOR IT!!!
October 27th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
OMG! I’m in dire financial need which is the ONLY reason why I’ve taken this job on. I was chosen today out of a room of 12 (weee) to have the HONOUR of being a part of this multi-level marketing gig, Paradigm Events (I’ll call P.E.). *sigh* I wish it wasn’t so.
I watched exactly what all of you have: “charity programs” & wavering customer product prices working (supposedly) hand-in-hand. I drove 25 miles to get to P.E., just to then find out that where I’m going to shaddow, was 10 minutes TOPS from my HOUSE!!!!! So, I’m driving my own car, and if you’ll do the math with me: 25 miles to P.E., 25 miles to drive to the “event”, 25 miles to P.E. for my 3rd “interview” & 25 miles back home, with the congrats to me that I have the F-ING job! *sigh* That was 100 miles today & just so you know, that’s 1/4 tank on my car!! Not like I’m getting paid yet or ever being reimbursed! This BLOWS! I could almost cry.
I’m job-shopping (as I’ve been doing for some time now) while enduring this nightmarish crap. Believe it or not, I’m ACTUALLY going in to my first day of “work” tomorrow….trust me, I wouldn’t if I didn’t need the $$$ so badly.
While you’re laughing at me for doing this, I hope you’ll also wish me luck. I’ll post back on here again when I finally LEAVE this joke-of-a-company (hopefully soon). And each & every one of you will say, “Told You So!”…. (I’m toughening up my skin since I know it’s coming)
November 7th, 2008 at 12:08 am
Also watch out for High Performance Promotions. They share the same office with 5th Dimension Promotionz. I got caught up in it. It was a very long day of standing on my feet. From 7:30 AM to 6:15 PM. They say that they aren’t the same, yet they are in the same office. They have meetings together in the same office, have group meetings together, have people from both companies train you, and both companies phone numbers are the same and answered by the same person. I found that this wasn’t the right job for me, no matter how desperate I am for a job. (I’ve been put of a job for 10 months now) I was once a store manager and never worked hours like I did nor stood up for as long as I did, nor did I ever worked with the limited breaks that I’d had or ever worked during a lunch break. (Unless it was an emergency) So just keep your eyes open for them as well.
November 16th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
I think this might be the same company, here in IL:
http://www.idpromotionz.com/
November 18th, 2008 at 3:51 am
They all seem to be the same firm, just with a new name.
They are carnies moving form one town to the next. After the word gets out they are a scam they change their name and get a new shitty web-site. I am sooooo glad I did not go to Hayward today.
They even have the same f***ing stock photos!
“Paradigm Events, Inc. is a privately owned promotional marketing firm located in San Leandro, CA. Sean Garner founded the company in response to a demand by local area consumers and businesses for a more effective, personal, and results-driven sales approach…”
December 3rd, 2008 at 1:01 pm
hahaha yeah this place is a total scam! i have a B.A in Marketing and when i applied for them( yesterday) then sent me an email at 8:30 pm, saying call them as soon as i get the email.well heres the email…
I’d like to thank you for your recent application online and for your
interest in a career with our company! I’d like to let you know that I
recently received your resume that you submitted to our open positions and I
passed it along to my management team. After carefully reviewing it, they’d
like to invite you in to meet with our hiring manager for a one-one-one
interview, so Congrats! We are really excited about expanding into a new
location and expanding our client portfolio. So right now we’re focused on
building the team of people who will gain the opportunity to help us
represent these new campaigns. I know they’re looking to fill positions as
soon as possible, so as soon as you receive this email, please contact me
directly at (847) 285 - 5224 in order to schedule your interview. You’ll be
meeting with our manager here in our Schaumburg location, so please make
note of the address I have listed below. I would also really recommend you
read more about our company on our website at: www.idpromotions.com to find
detailed information of our campaigns and clients we work with and also so
that you may be more prepared to meet with our management team. Thank you
once again and I look forward to meeting you soon!
Sincerely,
Shannon Davis
HR Department
I.D. Promotions, Inc.
1125 Tower Road
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Ph: 847-285-5224
www.idpromotions.com
i called them, this morning, asked them for “Shannon Davis” when i was told by a girl name michelle that she was ” out of town for the holiday” the holiday was last fuckin week!!!! i call BULL SHIT! so anyways talking to this “michelle” she said i was “Way qualified for this position” cuz of my BA. They wanted me to come in tomorrow morning at 11 for an interview. After reading all this i know its a scam for sure. this company needs to be brought down! i feel bad for all you ppl who when to this company for and interview and had to endure all their bullshit! I thank you all who post everything saying this was a scam! i didnt bust my ass for 4 years to get fucked by this company!