6 Red Flags to Watch for in a Job Interview

We all know the drill: a polished resume, practiced answers, and calming your nerves.

Now its show time. You (virtually) sit down with the hiring team to "'sell yourself".

But wait didn't you tell yourself that this job search would be different?

That you want to prioritize culture and fit?

...So how the heck do you do that.

A job interview should be a two-way street! Remember, it isn’t just for the company to evaluate you—it’s also your opportunity to assess the company and your potential manager.

Spotting red flags in an interview can help you dodge a bullet and land a job that you ACTUALLY love.

You might not know exactly what the job will be like until you’re in it, but you can make an educated guess. That requires you to be in the driver's seat during your interview.

So what should you look out for?

I'll share the top 6 red flags.

 

1. Interviewers aren’t paying attention:

This is the BIGGEST red flag and not a good sign for the team dynamic and company culture.

It signals they don’t value your time and effort and demonstrates a lack of basic professional courtesy.

2. The interview process is so long, you could have birthed a child

If it takes them 3-9 months for an interview process, then they probably don't have good priorities nor do they know what they're looking for.

In a job you can expect the priorities to constantly change.

3. Poor communication about the process:

This could be a sign of a larger issue that again the company doesn't have its priorities straight.

Generally, this can be due to behind-the-scenes changes.

Or it can just be an overwhelmed recruiter.

4. Unclear Job Responsibilities:

Always ask them about the top challenges this role will tackle.

If they can’t seem to give you a solid answer or it changes with each conversation.

It clearly shows the role is not well-defined, which can lead to confusion and frustration later.

5. Lack of Growth Opportunities:

Your career growth should be a top priority for any company.

So if they share that they want someone in this role long-term, you can get frustrated by the lack of upward movement in a year's time.

6. Your interviewer doesn't see their future here:

If everyone is jumping ship, do you really want to hop on board?

Get clarity on why they want to leave and assess whether that is an environment you want.

Takeaway Section:

Keep these red flags in mind as you navigate your job search. They’ll help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Remember, an interview is a two-way street. You deserve to be in a place that values and respects you.

P.S. What the biggest red flag you’ve encountered in an interview? Reply to this email and let me know.

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