Student-Athletes Beware: Red Flags to Watch Out for in Job Descriptions
Congrats on graduating! As you start looking for your first job after college, it’s essential to be aware of job descriptions that might seem “too good to be true.” As a student-athlete, you’ve likely developed valuable skills such as time management, teamwork, and discipline that will make you a great asset to any employer. However, navigating the job market can be tricky, and you’ll want to make sure you’re applying to positions that align with your career goals and values.
Here are 7 red flags that might indicate a job description isn’t as great as it seems:
1. “Fast-paced environment”
This might sound like an exciting challenge, but it often indicates a high-stress workplace with constantly shifting priorities. As a student-athlete, you’re used to juggling multiple commitments, but be careful if a job requires constant multitasking without much downtime, as this can lead to burnout.
2. “We work hard and play hard”
While this could suggest a fun, high-energy culture, it can also imply long working hours, after-hours events, and blurred boundaries between your personal and professional life. As someone who has already sacrificed a lot of personal time for athletics, make sure the work culture respects your time and wellbeing.
3. “Self-starter who can take initiative”
Employers love proactive employees, but when a job asks for this without offering proper guidance or support, it may mean you’ll be expected to take on responsibilities without much training. As a student-athlete, you’re accustomed to being coached, so make sure you’re not left to figure everything out on your own without mentorship.
4. “We’re like a family”
This phrase may sound welcoming, but it can sometimes suggest that the company expects you to put work above all else. You’ve already experienced the balance of team commitment vs personal time in sports, so make sure the company respects your work-life balance and doesn’t blur those lines.
5. “Unlimited earning potential”
While this sounds tempting, it often means the role is commission-based or relies heavily on bonuses, which can lead to an unstable income. You’re used to hard work and pushing yourself to excel, but it’s important to know if the job will offer a steady paycheck, especially as you transition from the structure of college athletics to the workforce.
6. “Entry-level” (but requires experience)
If an entry-level job requires years of experience or specific expertise, it’s a big red flag. Some employers want to give you advanced responsibilities without offering the training or compensation for a higher-level role. As someone who’s just left school, make sure the job truly matches your experience level.
7. “Passionate about the job”
While it’s great to be passionate about your work, be wary if employers overuse this phrase. It could be their way of justifying long hours or extra duties without proper compensation or support. As an athlete, you know that passion should come with balance—don’t let employers take advantage of your enthusiasm.
How to Navigate These Red Flags:
- Do Your Research: Look up the company’s values, culture, and how they treat employees. Check out their social media, Glassdoor reviews, or ask alumni who have worked there to get the inside scoop.
- Ask the Right Questions: When you’re interviewing, ask about the work-life balance, expectations, and how much support or training you’ll receive. Employers appreciate when candidates show curiosity and a proactive approach to understanding the role.
- Leverage Your Network: Reach out to fellow student-athletes or alumni who might know about the company. You already have a strong network built on teamwork, and now you can tap into that for career advice.
Remember, the job market can be just as competitive as athletics. Keep an eye out for red flags and don’t be afraid to walk away from a job that doesn’t feel right. Trust your instincts and take the time to find a position that supports both your career goals and personal life.