Look out for these job posting red flags to save yourself a lot of time and hassle.
It takes a lot of time and effort to research a new job, jump through the hoops to apply, interview, and then land the job. So, anything you can do to shorten the process and, more importantly, not waste your time, is worth taking note of.
Through our experience working with many, many job seekers, we have compiled a list of the top things you should look out for when researching job postings. If you discover any of these things, either ignore the post altogether or dig a bit deeper and contact the company before starting the application process.
We have a lot of advice and expertise regarding job searching. One thing we feel very strongly about is that blindly applying for job listings without and research is never a good idea. In addition to our list here, please read Avoid These 3 Things When Applying for a Job and Are These Things Slowing Down Your Job Search?
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Check List for Job Posting Red Flags
#1. Is the description missing key information?
If a job description is vague or poorly written, it may be an indication that the company isn’t sure what they want. If you can’t understand the requirements of your new role with this enterprise because there’s no clarity on skills and level experience needed for success- steer clear!
#2. Does it have too many requirements?
Exhaustingly specific descriptions can be a bad sign for different reasons. If their post makes them seem like they are expecting too high of an outcome, that may indicate that no matter who gets the job their expectations will continue being over-the-top and unrealistic.
#3. Do they mention any benefits?
Companies that are hesitant to sing their own praises should be viewed skeptically. If the description asks for a lot of qualifications, skills, and experience without mentioning what they will give you in return – like an absence or vague mention about benefits- consider it carefully as this could mean there’s more risk involved with any position than reward!
It’s important for businesses to provide information about the positives of working there, otherwise, they’ll never be able to attract top talent.
#4. Is the word ‘Flexibility’ mentioned too much?
Flexibility is a great way to keep the job market attractive, but many companies are taking it too far by overemphasizing this perk. Choosing what days you come into work each week and being able to decide when your office hours start may sound like an amazing opportunity from paradise on earth–but that could also mean working nights or weekends for them!
Approach listings that emphasize schedule flexibility with extreme caution and make sure you understand the definition the employer has for it before going into an interview.
#5. Is the earning range too wide?
Cast a large net and catch more fish, right? But for you, you need to be sure you are only applying for jobs that meet, or exceed, your salary requirements.
A major disparity between the lowest and highest salary listed is a red flag for a few different reasons. If you see phrases like ‘earning potential’ or an opportunity of commission-based pay rates then this could be bad news because it means your paycheck may depend on how well sales go!
#6. Is the job post anonymous?
Companies often choose not to post their names on posting boards for various reasons.
- They have earned a bad reputation.
- They have been caught in scandalous activity.
- They have been flagged as an employer that doesn’t care about its employees’ safety at work sites.
- They are trying to fill a position that hasn’t been officially announced or vacated.
This could also be a sign that the company lets employees go on the spot, which suggests they don’t value your job.
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