Red Flags to Look for During a Job Interview

One of the worst mistakes I ever made during the job application process was ignoring red flags during an interview. At the time, I was eager to leave a toxic work environment, and the company I was interviewing with painted a picture of an amazing culture, promising growth, and a fulfilling role. Despite some uneasy feelings, I convinced myself to overlook the red flags.

Looking back, I regret that decision. Many of the things that raised my concerns were either poorly defined or completely misrepresented, and the reality of the situation was far from the promises made. I had jumped from one toxic work environment straight into another, and it took me longer than I would have liked to realize it.

If you’re currently navigating job interviews, you need to remember that interviews are a two-way street. While it’s natural to focus on impressing your potential employer, it’s equally important to ask the right questions and evaluate the company and the role. Here are some red flags to watch for during a job interview and how to handle them.

Vague Job Descriptions

Job descriptions that seem too good to be true or are filled with vague language can often signal underlying issues. Sometimes, companies don’t really know what they’re looking for in a role, or they might have a distorted view of the responsibilities involved.

When you’re speaking with the hiring manager, ask detailed questions about the day-to-day responsibilities. The hiring manager should have a clear understanding of the role and the expectations. If they respond with something like, “You’ll wear a lot of hats,” or are unable to offer specifics, it’s a warning sign. In my experience, vague job expectations lead to misalignment between the employer and employee, making it hard to meet expectations.

Also, keep an eye out if the role is being described in overly idealized terms without concrete examples of what you’ll actually be doing. You want to ensure that what you’re being offered matches the job description.

Excessive Interview Steps

Another major red flag is when the interview process becomes unnecessarily long and involves a significant amount of unpaid work. For instance, if you’re asked to complete multiple rounds of interviews or submit long and detailed assignments before even being considered for the role, it’s worth questioning whether this company values your time.

A few rounds of interviews can be standard, but if you’re asked to undergo numerous lengthy interviews and detailed tests for a position that hasn’t even been offered yet, it’s likely a sign of poor decision-making within the company. These extended processes often reflect indecisiveness or a lack of respect for candidates’ time.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

During the interview, you should ask questions that not only help you understand the company’s expectations but also give you insight into the company’s culture and operations. Here are some essential questions you should ask:

1. Why is this role open? This question can reveal a lot about the company’s stability. Did the previous person leave because they moved on to a better opportunity, or was there high turnover? Understanding this can help you gauge whether the company is a good place to stay long-term.
2. How flexible is the work environment? If flexibility matters to you, this is a crucial question. Many companies claim flexibility, but in reality, they require employees to adhere to rigid schedules and excessive meetings. Ask about working hours, remote work options, and how flexible the company really is.
3. How is feedback given? This is an essential question, especially if the company has evolving job responsibilities. A well-defined review process is important for making sure you know what’s expected of you. If the company lacks a formal review system, it may be a sign that the role is unclear, or that communication could be lacking.

Check References — But Not Just Theirs

Just as employers are likely checking your references, you should do the same. Checking reviews on Glassdoor and LinkedIn can provide valuable insights into the company’s culture. However, be cautious of overly negative or overly positive reviews; sometimes these can be skewed.

If possible, connect with former employees to get the real story. You can find them on LinkedIn and, if you’re comfortable, send a message asking them about their experience. A pattern of short employee tenures or consistent negative feedback could point to a problematic company culture.

Trust Your Gut

Lastly, don’t ignore your instincts. If something feels off during the interview process, it’s likely a red flag. A bad gut feeling about the company or the interviewer could signal that the work environment is toxic or that the role won’t be as advertised.

I’ve personally found that when my gut told me something wasn’t right, it usually meant there were problems down the line. Even if the role seems like it could be a good fit, don’t ignore that inner voice. It’s better to keep looking for the right opportunity than to settle for a job that won’t be fulfilling or could lead to regret later.

Conclusion

While job interviews are an essential part of finding a new role, they also serve as a platform for you to assess whether a company is right for you. The interview process isn’t just about impressing your future employer; it’s also about ensuring that you are making the right decision for your career. By asking the right questions, recognizing red flags, and listening to your gut, you can avoid falling into the trap of a job that’s not what it seemed. Be sure to protect your time, your well-being, and your career trajectory by staying vigilant during the interview process.