6 Red Flags the Job You’re Applying for is No-Good

02.25.20 | Job Search

You’ve likely gone through this at some point in your career: you find an intriguing job online and apply, only to find it was nothing like you thought. Whether it’s the actual job you end up doing or the company culture, some jobs just end up as nightmares. Here are six red flags to look out for to see if the job is no good.

1. It’s disorganized from the beginning.

Many companies have outdated interview processes that are lacking and take too long, but those are different than being disorganized. If you’re trying to set up an interview and wires keep getting crossed, and people don’t know what’s going on, it might be a good sign that this company isn’t the best place for you.

2. There are high turnover rates.

Information like this can be found online through sites like Glassdoor, but you can also ask in your interview. Or they may even mention it, depending on the situation. Either way, if you have an uneasy feeling, find out how frequently people leave and why because it may prevent you from accepting and then doing the same.

3. People seem unhappy.

Even if you don’t get to speak to a lot of people while you’re interviewing, you’ll likely be able to sense the vibe. Are people talking to each other? Do they seem happy? How about your interviewer? Or does everyone look like they’re just trying to put in their eight hours before they leave? If the company culture seems like a downer, you should consider passing.

4. You get an offer right on the spot.

Not every on-the-spot offer is bad, but often it can be a sign of desperation. If you know turnover is high, they could be looking for anyone to say yes and get started. Not only does it undervalue what you have to offer, it involves you potentially deciding before you’ve had time to research and consider. Even if you are offered the job, ask for time to think about it.

5. They don’t want to pay you what you’re worth.

If you get as far as accepting the job, you may reach a point where they’re offering you way less than you’re worth. Even if they’ll negotiate higher, it’s a struggle even to reach fair wages. At this point, you must think about your future and if every salary negotiation will be this challenging.

6. You don’t know what you’re supposed to do.

Let’s say you get past bad interviews and negotiations, and you finally start the job. Maybe everything seemed normal until you had your first day. Now that you’re here, you don’t know what to do. There was a job description, but even it was kind of vague and no one can give you a clear answer. If you don’t know what you’re supposed to do, it may be time to get out.

Avoid Red Flags with Workbox Staffing

When you want a new job, try partnering with an agency you can trust. Workbox works closely with employees and employers to make sure both are benefiting, meaning you won’t get placed in a red flag role. Request a call today to get started!