After 19 years of Recruiting across Sydney's real estate and property sector, I've seen my fair share of interviews. Here are five red flags to keep an eye on, along with examples and what they might reveal about a job:
Lack of Clarity About Role and Responsibilities
Example: When you ask about daily tasks, the interviewer gives vague or inconsistent answers.
What It Reveals: This could indicate a poorly defined role or a disorganised company structure.
High Employee Turnover
Example: The interviewer casually mentions that the position has been filled multiple times in the past year.
What It Reveals: High turnover can be a sign of a toxic work environment or unrealistic job expectations.
Negative Comments About Previous Employees
Example: The interviewer speaks poorly of former employees or blames them for issues.
What It Reveals: This might suggest a lack of accountability within the company or a negative workplace culture.
Avoidance of Questions About Career Growth
Example: The interviewer dodges questions about promotion opportunities or professional development.
What It Reveals: This could indicate limited growth potential or a lack of investment in employee development.
Unprofessional Behaviour During the Interview
Example: The interviewer is late, distracted, or unprepared.
What It Reveals: This may reflect the company's overall professionalism and how they value their employees' time.
How to Prepare to Spot These Red Flags:
Research the Company: Look up reviews on sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn to get a sense of the company culture and employee experiences.
Prepare Specific Questions: Ask about the company's values, team dynamics, and career development opportunities.
Observe the Interviewer: Pay attention to their behaviour and how they respond to your questions.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off during the interview, don't ignore it.
By being vigilant and prepared, you can better navigate the interview process and find a job that's the right fit for you. Good luck!