5 Warning Signs That You Should Probably Not Accept the Job Offer

THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS ARTICLE ARE SOLELY THOSE OF THE AUTHOR.

“Trust your gut” is usually good advice. That said, younger candidates for positions may not yet have a “gut,” so to speak. Nevertheless, there are things that any job candidate should recognize as troubling.

Just a reminder: The job interview process is a two-way street. While the employer is interviewing and judging the candidate, the candidate should also be interviewing and judging the employer. The hiring process usually is a great indication of how a company operates.

My first warning sign is being kept waiting. It’s rude. It shows that the interviewers do not value the candidate’s time. And it is a good indication that they are disorganized. Of course, if they apologize and explain in advance that there is a situation, they should be given a pass (once!).

Second on my hit parade of worries, the interviewers do not have a copy of the candidate’s resume. They may be testing to see if the candidate is prepared, but, at the same time, they are indicating that they are not prepared.

Third, if the interviewers do not give the candidate an opportunity to ask questions, stick tail between legs and run for the exit! If they don’t want to hear from candidates, I’ll be my bottom dollar that they don’t want to hear from their employees!

Fourth, along the same lines, if interviewers refuse to answer questions, or to provide clear answers to clear questions, see above! Of course, candidates should never ask about proprietary information, and they should keep in mind that some things are only revealed to employees not candidates.

Finally, the compensation package has to be clear and simple. Candidates do not want to discover, for example, that, yes, the employer will triple their 401(k) contribution, but vetting takes five years! Moreover, bonus structures can be very confusing. In other words, candidates must read the fine print which means reading the personnel handbook. If a candidate needs a lawyer to understand the handbook or the offer, they probably don’t want the job.

5 Warning Signs That You Should Probably Not Accept the Job Offer | Employment Edification