6 red flags to watch out for during your job search 🚩

An interview is generally considered to be the initial litmus test by a company for potential employees. However it could also be a valuable opportunity for the candidate to gather some essential information or to spot red flags before its too late. When you’re on the look out for a job opening, it is important to know if you’re a right fit on various fronts – how your work ethic, values and philosophy match with those of the company, the work environment, what the role entails and more. 

Here are 6 red flags to be wary of during your job hunt.

🚩 Vague answers to direct questions:

Just like you, the interviewer should be prepared to answer any queries related to the role. This includes accurate information on expectations from the role, procedures involved, reporting managers, benefits, etc.

If you feel like the interviewer is not answering these questions accurately or is purposefully vague, this is clearly a potential red flag.

🚩 Minimal information shared on the work environment:

Listen to how the interviewer addresses your questions about the work environment, such as those about the company values, working hours, etc. Do they seem nervous? Or inarticulate despite their best efforts?

A company that has a solid grasp of its purpose and a clear plan of action will be transparent about its culture.

🚩 Poor conduct of the interviewer:

A clear-cut hiring process is one of the hallmarks of a company that has its affairs in order. Much like a candidate, an interviewer who is well-prepared and focused will make the interview feel more productive and purposeful.

🚩 Demands that could harm your work-life balance:

A good work-life balance is essential for an individual’s long-term mental and physical well-being.  Organizations that respect their employees will definitely emphasize creating a work culture that helps maintain work-life balance.

🚩 Lack of clarity on your job responsibilities:

One of the key takeaways from an interview should be adequate details on the responsibilities tied to the job opening. This is essential information for the candidate to gauge if the role suits their skills and career aspirations.

🚩Your professional achievements and experience are downplayed:

Every individual, regardless of their qualification or experience, deserves to be professionally and respectfully treated during an interview.

However, though rare, there are unsavory incidents of interviewers belittling a candidate’s profile. This can severely undermine a candidate’s confidence during salary negotiation.

To sum up, a candidate is entitled to check for compatibility as much as the company. A recruiter who maintains transparency with matters related to your role, more often than not, represents a responsibly-managed company. A flippant or disinterested hiring manager might be evidence to the contrary. To be on the safe side, always do your due diligence to know more about the job opening and spot any of the aforementioned red flags before you decide to take it up.