Like any relationship, sometimes there are signs that scream NO right in your face and you still can’t see it. You hope that the signs are wrong or that this is just a phase. But, just like you can’t compromise when it comes to a life partner, you shouldn’t compromise when it comes to your livelihood. We’ve all been though the phase of going to too many interviews and getting too many rejections. However, you need to understand that just because a company accepted you, doesn’t mean you have to take it. And, some signs are very obvious from the very beginning.
Getting your interview rescheduled too many times
Sometimes a company might be going through renovations or moving locations. Sometimes the work atmosphere is too hectic and they can’t seem to settle for a time for the interview. Other times, employers are just messy and unorganized. Living in a society that is known for having punctuality issues doesn’t mean that you should accept them. A reschedule is fine but too many of them is certainly a red flag. Don’t appear to be too available and let them take advantage of that.
“You’re hired”
No company hires someone right on the spot if they’re not a small business. Bigger companies need to have inside conversations before accepting someone for the job. I’ve read an article about how we all love to hear compliments at the interview, such as the interviewer saying “you might be fit for the job.” But instant hiring, in most cases, is not a good sign. Are they too desperate? Are they scared that if you do more research about the company you’ll find out things you shouldn’t find? Just take some time to think about it and actually do some research.
Not knowing what your responsibilities are exactly
It’s one thing to be offered a graphic design job and occasionally do thumbnails for YouTube, but it’s another thing to not know if you’re even going to be a graphic designer. Sometimes companies don’t put a title to the job offer. They would rather just give a very vague title and talk about different tasks during the interview. Tasks that fall under different job titles. They just need someone to do the job of four different people but only pay for one. Be sure to know exactly what your responsibilities are so you can think about your job offer.
Turnover Rates are high
Try to find someone who used to/is currently working at the same company. If you find out that this company has been changing their staff more times than they should, then that’s a red flag right there. You’re looking to sustain yourself and have a long-term job. It’s fine if the company let go of people after training periods; the company saw the trainees’ work and didn’t like them so, they let them go. But if employees keep leaving without even completing a 6 month period, then this is a problem.
The job is a step back
You have to know that just because you got accepted to a job doesn’t mean you have to take it. Some jobs are just steps in the wrong direction. Don’t look at the pay or just the fact that you’ve been looking for a job for so long. Focus on what you want to do long-term and if this job is not going to help you achieve that then don’t go for it. Don’t do the tasks you did as a trainee when you’re qualified for a senior position.
