The job market is tough at the moment. And it’s only going to get tougher. People work longer and live longer. The newer candidates tend to be better educated and will work for less money. So when you get that job offer, you should take it, right?
Strictly speaking, with all things being equal. Yes, you should. Especially if it’s within the industry that you want to work in. However, there are times when you should step back and take a deeper view of the position and the company that are offering you a role. Sometimes they are not all that they seem and having them on your resume could hurt you in the longer term.
So, should you accept that job offer? Read on to find out when your answer should be a resounding no.
Situation Number one:
The business has been around for years but most, if not all of the staff are fairly new to the business. High staff turnover is a great way to instantly see that the employer is not great to work for and will not give you an environment to thrive in. At interview ask questions to gauge staff longevity. How long have you been here? What do you enjoy about working for the company? Also, has the job listing been posted everywhere and seems to always be active? Another sign that staff turnover is high and staff moral is very low.
Situation Number Two:
Is the job being sold to you a little too enthusiastically? Couple this with a vague job description and you have the perfect storm. Run while you still can, cause this is more than likely a pyramid scheme or hard sell scam. This especially holds true if the company tends to use lots of bullshit buzzwords such as “be your own boss” “blue sky thinking” “the sky’s the limit”. This is just a way to sound positive and obfuscate the actual role.
And if they ask you for cash before you begin working in any form, leave immediately.
Situation Number Three:
Is the interviewer bad mouthing their current workforce and can’t wait for you to join? Flattery is great but once you’re in, what’s to stop them treating you badly while badmouthing you to the next candidate that walks through the door?
Situation Number Four:
When you ask about career progression and don’t get a clear answer. If you’re ambitious, make sure you have a clear path set out before you accept that job offer. Otherwise you might find yourself stagnating while promises, deadlines and promotions come and go.
Situation Number Five:
Watch the workers while you wait for your interview. How is their body language? Do they seem happy or down trodden? Also keep an eye on how they interact with the boss. Are their interactions easy and professional or do the workforce seem scared or unsure around their leader? Always remember, if you accept that job offer, this could be you in no time at all.
Last of all, remember this. Sometimes you have to find a job, any job. And most jobs can be put up with as long as you have your exit strategy planned and ready to be put in action. Most of the above can be dealt with (apart from the asking for money) but never stop looking for that next move away. Otherwise you might find yourself stuck working a job you hate for the foreseeable future.