Warning signs why you should not accept the job offer

You’ve heard all about the standard job interview etiquette. Be on time, dress smart, be positive, ask questions etc. But what many people seem to forget is that it’s crucial that you use this opportunity to get an initial feeling about your potential employer. It can be a difficult decision to turn down a job offer, especially if you have been looking for some time. However, nobody wants to accept an offer from a company you desperately want to leave after a few days.

You don’t want to get stuck in a miserable job. So, it’s important to focus and pay attention on the hiring process to pick up the signs to not end up at a terrible company to work for. Because, we spend so much time at work that an unhappy work situation can make the rest of your life pretty miserable as well.

So, how can you spot a bad company to work for? First of all do your research! Look into the companies values, the company culture and go through their social media. This will give you a good initial feeling for the company. You can then match your research with your experience interviewing at the company. Next to research, also pay attention if you come across any of the following warning signs.

Your gut feeling says no

Always trust your instinct. If you left the interview with a knot in your stomach and hoped you wouldn’t get an offer though the job offered a high salary and greater responsibility, it may be time to decline.

Unprofessional communication

Do you not get any clear answers to your questions about the company, the hiring process etc. Do they let you wait a very long time without any update after the interview, do your emails and phone calls not get answered or you get cancelled on without any apologies? You may want to re-consider your application for this company.

As with every form of communication it is important to be treated with respect. If this doesn’t happen already during the hiring process, then this is a massive red flag. How you are being treated during the hiring process gives an indication how you will be treated as an employee.

An unpleasant company vibe

Always have a look at the office and meet your co-workers before you accept a job offer. Check the attitude of the other employees working there and have a look around the office. If the office gives you an unpleasant vibe you will have to ask yourself the question, do I really want to work here?

Not liking your future co-workers already

Getting along with your boss, managers and co-works is quite important as it can really make a difference to your happiness in a job. Trust your gut feeling, if you already don’t like the people or manager you will have to work with from the start, it might be better to keep looking for something else. You know what they say, first impressions are key.

No clarity

Companies tend to treat candidates with more care than actual employees because they want to hire new potential talent. If a manager doesn’t take the time to conduct a proper interview, it is the first sign that you wont get the training and support once in the job. The same goes for after having had a few interviews it should be clear what your responsibilities will be in this job and what is expected from you. If different people give you different answers about job responsibilities, or there are no clear goals for you to work towards, will possibly lead to confusion and an unclear and difficult start of your job. This can lead to a confusing and ultimately difficult job situation.

No interview process

No interview after the company has seen your CV can happen in seasonal jobs, but doesn’t happen in Network and Security jobs. If you come across this, this might be a very desperate company that needs someone asap and hasn’t been able to find anyone. Take your time to find out if this is the company for you before accepting anything.

These are a few examples of signs you need to pay attention to, to stay away from bad working environments. However, the best way to learn about your potential employer is to ask questions. Ask about the position you are interviewing for, the office culture, future prospects and what is expected from the person who will work this role. In this way you get crucial information you need and you show interest.

Save yourself the struggle and stress by finding out early on if this is the company you want to work at.

One thought on “Warning signs why you should not accept the job offer

  1. No interview after the company has seen your CV can happen in seasonal jobs, but doesn’t happen in Network and Security jobs. If you come across this, this might be a very desperate company that needs someone asap and hasn’t been able to find anyone. Take your time to find out if this is the company for you before accepting anything.

    Even if its phone interview?

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