Job experts issue five interview red flags that could indicate a toxic workplace
Job hunting can be relentless, and making it to the interview stage is often a victory in itself, no matter the outcome.
Sure, a job interview isn’t just about impressing the employer, but it gives you a chance to evaluate whether a company is the right fit for you.
Some businesses run their interviews by the book, but others might employ some unusual strategies, like attempting to ask illegal questions, or perhaps tests like this 'stupid' alphabet experiment.
Career experts at resume.io have warned that a toxic workplace can often be scoped out during job interviews, before you even accept an offer.
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They've identified five key red flags to watch out for during your next interview...
Vague explanation of job description and growth opportunities
If the job description keeps changing during the interview or the expectations seem overly demanding without a lack of proper support, it could signal a number of potential issues.
These could include that the company has unclear leadership, lack of direction or unrealistic demands, resume.io warns.
Additionally, if the interviewer seemingly avoids questions about growth, training, or future opportunities, it may mean the company undervalues employee development.
Disorganized interviewers
If your interview is rescheduled more than once, or the interviewer comes across as unprepared or disorganized, it can be an indicator of deeper-rooted issues within the company.
For example, if the hiring manager seems overwhelmed or forgetful, it might mean that they are overworked or that the company lacks proper management structures, resume.io warns.
This can often lead to burnout, high turnover and poor leadership.
No salary transparency
Another potential red flag is lack of information regarding pay - whether that be in the job advert itself or at the interview.
If the company that you are interviewing for are unable to provide clear details of either the salary or the benefits and job perks of the role, it can mean that there isn't an open and fair culture around pay and money.
It can also mean that they may be waiting to gauge your salary expectations to offer you the lowest possible pay for the role, resume.io warns.
Overemphasis on hard work
If the company that you are interviewing for boasts about their employees working long hours and sacrificing their weekends and evenings with limited mention of work-life balance, it could be a sign of a workplace with a burnout culture.
Additionally, if phrases such as 'we’re like a family' are used to describe the team, it may indicate blurred boundaries and expectations of constant availability.
While teamwork is essential, a healthy workplace respects personal time and values their team's mental health.
High employee turnover
If the interviewer mentions that the role that you are applying for has been refilled multiple times in a short period of time, it may suggest deeper issues such as poor leadership, lack of growth opportunities or a toxic work environment that employees can’t endure long-term.
Resume.io advises to always read the online reviews about the company you're applying to.
"Ensure to look for recurring themes in multiple reviews as consistent negative feedback may indicate a toxic work environment," they add.
"Also, check whether the company is responding to these reviews as engagement can suggest a commitment to improving employee experiences and addressing key concerns."
Topics: Jobs, Business, Mental Health
Ellie Kemp