Just because you get a new job offer doesn’t mean you have to say yes. Check out these red flags that can save you from making a big mistake!
When you’re unemployed and hungry for work, it’s not uncommon to accept the first job offer you get to alleviate the stress of how you’re going to pay the rent. Of course, there are many cases where the job is a great fit and it’s an easy transition from being the new face around the office to a popular coworker. But then there are times when you find yourself in a new job and realize your hasty decision should have been given a bit more thought.
If you’re currently interviewing, check out these red flags questions to ask yourself before you say yes to a job offer.
How Do You Feel About The Company?
If where you’re interviewing isn’t a company you’ve heard of before, pay close attention to the office environment and dynamics between the employees. Do they look social, fun, well groomed, dedicated and happy? Or do they look like your worst co-working nightmare?
Find out if the company does team building exercises, offers incentives for a job well done or hosts fun events and activities — like pizza parties on Fridays. Little things make a huge difference, and, if it seems like the company doesn’t value their employees, they aren’t going to value you.
Is There An HR Department?
When you’re starting out in the workforce, it can be really hard to have uncomfortable conversations with your boss or co-workers when something just isn’t right. Regardless, if it’s a form of harassment, internal conflict or you’re just feeling overwhelmed, an HR department is your safe place to talk things out and find a solution.
When I was stuck in a job from hell, I had no HR department to turn to, making it extra hard to reach a compromise with my very stubborn boss. Guess what happened, the job didn’t work out.
Where Is The Office?
Make sure you’re comfortable with the commute and office location before you commit to spending at least 40 hours a week at this potential new job. If you’re stuck in constant traffic, are forced to take the worst train on the rails and end up at an office park with no food options or places to walk to, there’s a strong possibility you won’t be jumping out of bed in the morning to get there.
If there are more pros and cons for the job, you might inquire about the possibility of part-time work from home, but, if that’s a no-go, make sure those pros are strong to make the less than desirable work place worth it.
What Are The Expectations Of The Role?
A job description and what you actually end up doing can be two drastically different things. During your interview, make sure to probe into expectations for the role and ask the right job interview questions.
What should be prioritized? What goals do you want met? Aside from what’s in the job description, what else will be expected from this role? Who will you be working with the most? If your future employer doesn’t have solid answers, seems vague and carries the attitude of, “You just do what you want and I’m sure it will be fine,” say “Thanks, but no thanks,” and run the other way as fast as you can.
Have You Received A Formal Contract?
When offered a new job by a legitimate company, you should receive a formal offer letter and contract. The contract will outline all the conditions of your employment of the company — including a severance agreement and vacation days. If you’re not given a formal contract, either ask for one, or kindly decline.
Should you lose your job without legal documents stating what you are owed and within what time frame, you’re going to have a hell of a time trying to get anything from your employer — and that’s just a messy situation you don’t need to walk into.
What Is The New Job’s Social Media Like?
During a job interview, both sides are doing their best to make a good impression, so you might not see an undesirable side to the person you are considering reporting to. The popularity of social media has made it very easy for a hiring manager to do a little lurking to see what you’re like IRL. So there’s no harm in reversing roles and checking out what the new job’s social media platforms are like. You might discover multiple red flags that tell you this company — or hiring manager — isn’t a good work fit for you, making it easier to decline the offer.
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