u/HeftyExtension2026

I want to highlight a hiring practice that job seekers should be cautious about, especially in startups and “fast-growing” companies recruiting through LinkedIn.

Some companies advertise what appear to be legitimate full-time job opportunities, but after candidates go through interviews and onboarding discussions, the role suddenly changes into a “fellowship,” “training program,” or extended probation arrangement with vague promises of a future permanent role.

I recently encountered this with a french company called Digeto, started by an Indian guy and also associated with Gregor Aschoff, who presents himself as a co-founder based in Australia. After speaking with mutual connections and learning more about how the setup allegedly works, several red flags became clear.

The pattern reportedly looks something like this:

• Candidates apply believing it’s a real paid job opportunity.
• Later, they are informed it’s actually a 3-month fellowship/probation-style program.
• During this period, participants are expected to work full-time hours,, often 8–9 hours a day - handling sales, business development, outreach, and client acquisition across different geographies.
• Team members are heavily motivated with promises that the company is “going to become a unicorn” and that sticking through the process will lead to huge future opportunities.
• However, after the 3 months, all participants are reportedly told their “performance wasn’t good enough” and are removed, despite contributing work, leads, and business efforts during the program.

This post is not to attack anyone personally, but to encourage job seekers to do careful due diligence before joining any loosely defined “fellowship” or “internship-to-job” arrangement.

Before accepting such roles, make sure you ask:
• Is there a written employment contract?
• Is compensation clearly defined?
• What are the exact conversion criteria for a full-time role?
• How many previous fellows were actually hired permanently?
• Are work expectations reasonable and legally compliant?

Job seekers deserve transparency, respect for their time, and fair compensation for real work.

I want to highlight a scammy hiring practice that job seekers should be aware of. Some companies post what appear to be legitimate jobs on LinkedIn, but after you apply, they reveal that it’s actually a “fellowship” or “training program” where you’re expected to work for 3 months with only vague promises of a future full-time role.

I recently had this experience with Digeto, associated with Gregor Aschoff, who presents himself as a co-founder based in Australia. After speaking with mutual connections and learning more about how the setup works, several red flags became clear.

The pattern seems to be:

• Candidates are recruited under the impression of a real job opportunity.
• Later, they’re told it’s a 3-month fellowship or probation-style arrangement.
• During that time, they work on sales, business development, or client acquisition in different geographies.
• Once the 3 months are over, many are reportedly told their “performance was not good enough” and are removed, despite contributing work and helping generate business.

Please do your research before joining similar “programs,” especially if the role suddenly changes after the interview process.