Look for These Red Flags When Considering a New Job

— November 9, 2017

If you’re eager to land a new job, it may be tempting to take any job that is offered. But this can be problematic. If you take a bad job – the wrong job for you – it may put you in the unfortunate position of having to find another job soon after, as well as creating the need to explain to new employers why you left your new job so soon. Here are some red flags job seekers should look out for when considering a new position:

Makes Lofty Promises

If an employer says their workplace culture is the “best,” or that a candidate will be offered a hefty raise in the near future if willing to take a lower salary now, job seekers should be concerned. If employers make lofty promises in the interview process, odds are good that the employer is simply trying to entice the candidate. Instead, look for concrete details, such as compensation structures or programs aimed at creating a positive workplace culture.

Avoids Answering Questions

Starting a new job is a serious endeavor that has a big impact on an individual’s overall career. So, employers should be comfortable answering questions about the role for which they are hiring. If they don’t know the answers to common questions, it’s possible they do not have a clear understanding of the job’s expectations. And if they intentionally avoid answering questions? This may signal that something is wrong.

Faces Challenges Scheduling the Interview

There are two types of scheduling challenges to be on the lookout for when interviewing for a job. If the employer expects a candidate to drop everything for a last-minute interview, the employer might be desperate to fill the role as fast as possible or might demand this type of flexibility on a regular basis. This behavior also indicates the employer does not respect the job candidate’s time. If the employer keeps changing dates and times, it could mean they are disorganized or their workplace is chaotic.

Has Negative Online Reviews

If an employer has negative online reviews, even if there are some positive ones, it is worth taking a closer look at what the reviews say. Some companies direct their current employees write positive reviews for the company to offset negative comments. While some negative reviews could come from disgruntled employees, the overall trends should reveal the truth. If five negative reviews criticize the company for the same thing, there is a good chance the criticism is valid. It’s acceptable to ask about these reviews in your interview as well.

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Author: Joe Donahue

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