Red Flags To Look Out For In A Job Interview
Going for a job interview requires preparation, research and knowledge about the company you've applied for, as well as making sure you look your best and stand out among the other candidates on the list.
But remember: an interview is a two-way conversation where you’re also trying to find out if the company is the best fit for you.
This article describes four red flags that you should look out for during the hiring process that could indicate a possibly toxic work environment or an employer that isn't sincere.
Constant rescheduling of and lateness during the interview
If the HR team is always rescheduling your interview, stating that the manager is too busy to meet you for reasons such as team meetings and business trips, this might indicate that they are wasting your time and purposely dragging out the process.
Timeliness should be expected from both parties, to exhibit sincerity and acknowledgement of each party’s time and effort. If your employer doesn't come on time, this gives the impression that they don't take your application seriously.
Unnecessary questions that are not related to the job role
There are times when interviews are going on smoothly and it seems like the questions you answered went really well… but there are other times when they could ask something unrelated to the job, probing instead into personal details or matters about you.
If your interviewer also asks about your marital status, race, mental health condition and other personal characteristics, this is considered discrimination and they can be reported for not following the TAFEP guidelines. This is also important if you do face any workplace harassment as well as unfair workplace practices – it can protect you from inappropriate treatment and allow you to speak to an officer for help with such situations.
Remember to draw a line if it gets too uncomfortable: you’re not obliged to answer due to the overwhelming pressure of the situation. If it gets too aggressive, it just means that they don't respect your boundaries, which is a red flag for you.
Vague answers to your questions
Going through an interview means that you can also ask the interviewer questions any concerns or queries you might have before deciding whether this is the right fit for you, be it the job, environment, or work culture.
If you ask about essential and important information like your salary, working hours and job scope and they do not give you a precise answer, this means they might use it as an advantage to change their words after you've joined the company, or it could mean that they do not have a clear idea of the role itself. Make sure to always have them clearly state what you're here for.
Rude remarks
If you meet someone who is disrespectful towards human rights by being rude or offensive — expressing racism, sexism, homophobia or even looking down on someone's previous job and education qualifications, physical and mental health conditions and their own faith, this is a definite sign to leave.
Everyone deserves respect, and if the company you applied to doesn't give you that comfort and inclusivity - you should find somewhere that can wholeheartedly give you that. WIthout it, this will eventually hurt your inner self and self-worth which is not worth risking over.
I did encounter several instances where I was criticised and judged for my mental health condition. It felt terrible, and made me question my capabilities. From then on, I knew not to pick a workplace that fails to empathise with and understand their employees.
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You deserve to be happy, in a job that potentially portrays a green flag, especially towards your well-being, growth and accepting you as one of their valued employees - with constant appreciation and acknowledgement of your contribution to the company.