As the pandemic progressed, we witnessed many new normals. And quitting jobs due to unreasonable burdens or a toxic work environment was one of the few. But what can prevent you from investing the time and energy to start a job and find out it’s toxic? Is there a way to figure it out, right at the job interview?
Yes! There is. And today, we will share not one, but five red flags to watch out for at a job interview. So, let’s get started…
Five Signs of professional toxicity to lookout for at a Job Interview:
The hiring manager does not want you to talk to anyone else on the team
A healthy work environment promotes honesty and transparency and that begins at the interview itself. If the hiring manager tries to stop you from interacting with present team members, they must be trying to hide something. Red flag alert!
The hiring manager denies any shortcomings of the company or agency
No job is perfect, and you must deal with some discrepancies and difficulties at the job. However, if the interviewer refuses to acknowledge any areas of improvement, then it is rather suspicious and likely points to a toxic culture.
The way they measure success or achievements is cutthroat
Manuela Priesemuth, a management professor at Villanova University, researching toxic workplaces, recommends reading between the lines to understand the values of the company.
While talking about the company goals, if the hiring manager gives off hints of micromanagement or the companies obsession with the bottom line, it’s better to look at other jobs.
Recruiters are unclear about employment agreements or job role
A job interview is as much as the company’s evaluation as much as you. Don’t believe anything else. If the recruiter refuses to answer your questions or address your queries in regards to the job role, KPIs or the employee agreement, it is probably a good idea to reconsider moving forward.
Current employees of the company seem unhappy or irritable
Don’t ignore your gut instinct! When it comes to judging the work environment, the vibe goes a long way. If your immediate impression of the job or the work culture does not feel right, or you encounter too many employees who seem disturbed or distracted, it’s probably a huge sign to call the quits.
Stay tuned… Subscribe to our Newsletter!
