[Rochr]

Beeing a freelancer and not knowing a thing about the design/architecture world i thought i´ld ask here, since most of you guys seem to be in the business.

I recieved a job offer as 3D modeler/visualization artist (futuristic design & architecture) by a man named Mario Gagliardi. The position would be inhouse in a new studio at the Design Zone in Doha, Qatar.

Now, my experience tells me that something that sounds to good to be true, usually is.
And with this one sounding pretty good, my question would be if anyone here have heard about the man and the location, and if you think it´s legit?

And(if anyone here actually work there), is it true that salary is tax free in Qatar?

Appreciate any help you can give.

Rudy

[ivox3]

Just request more information and perhaps some references till your satisfied.

Your pretty good with the future stuff -- so I'm not surprised they found you.

Good luck w/that...

[Rochr]

Thanks for the reply ivox.

Well, i recieved a little info about the project, but i´ll definitely ask for more. Qatar is not exactly next door.

[Eric Lagman]

I would request a visit to the studio at their expense. The fact that you got an offer without ever visiting is odd if that is indeed the case. Is it a full time thing or just until the project is done? Also google is your friend. If someone shows up there at the top of the list more than likely they are legit. Not always, but I think its a good sign. Best of luck though.

http://www.mariogagliardi.com/index.php ... _biography

Also I see he has an industrial design background. Most of us are decent people to work with and for.

[ivox3]

That's nice Eric .... Looks on the up and up.

Rochr .... I'd say you need crazy details, ..essentially a contract. What if you go through all the trouble/expense of making the shift and you don't like it there ? ...if they don't like you ? .... there has to be contingencies in place and those issues are just at the periphery of it all. There is also the possibility that an individual/company when doing well is apt to overlook the details and just consign any eventualities to something that can be worked out later ----- that's where you have to insist on a very comprehensive contract that outlines any and all possibilities.

Assume nothing and Eric's idea about making an initial trip is an absolute requirement. Again, ....best of luck with this. Big scary and possibly great oppurtunity here .......

[Rochr]

Thanks guys.

You´re right, i´ll have to check this out thoroughly before accepting anything. I know what they´re looking for and what the job basically is about. However i don´t even know what software they´re using etc etc, which is info i normally get in the first message in any job offer.
Even better if i could visit the place as Eric sais.

@ Eric
I get overseas offers on regular bases so that part is actually not that odd.
Don´t get me wrong, i do believe 99% of you guys are ok, i´m just being cautious.

[JCAddy]

I'll tell you what, look into EVERYTHING that you can before even visiting. I'd get a business background check on his company if you can before you go so you're not wasting his money or yours. Have him pay for your flight over to check out the company and interview, you shouldn't have to pay for anything if he's serious. If not, then tough for him!

I was about a month away from moving to Liverpool on what seemed to be a great offer at an arch viz firm. I visited for a week, looked for a flat to let and was ready to go. I got back from Liverpool did a couple freelance job 'in good faith' since I met the man in person and was ready to join his firm, and still have not been paid. That reason being why I am still in California :*(

Just be very cautious and you can never ask too many questions.

[big K]

be careful !
he might be someone completly different !



just joking - no need to worries - i know this is very serious for you.
he just looked to familiar !

michael

p.s.

i agree with all the others - for such a big step it is important to know all the facts.
on the other hand i have heard quite good things about working in these countries. if your life allows this and it is not for ever, this could be a cool (better hot) time !

[JCAddy]

David Hasselhoff?

[Rochr]

Good pointers guys. Thank you.

I believe it´s a legit offer, but with family, house etc, it´s not that easy to just move overseas.
It´s a great offer, but i think i´ll pass this one and continue with the freelancing. It has its advantages too.

[big K]

David Hasselhoff?

no, no.

this is thomas anders from modern talking.

[big K]

and rudy,

good decission, i think, if you have got family it is not that easy.