8 Danger Signs When You’re Job Searching

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Target did all of this to my boyfriend when he applied for a job as a seasonal customer service representative. They called him within 24 hours of applying which is inconvenient and they were also rude to him during the interview.

Chibi of CA 5:42PM November 20, 2011

The "Zero Turnover, ever" is one I have recent experience with, unfortunately. I worked for a small private Lutheran University, that hoisted that flag and shouted their divine organizational model from the rooftops. Complete with most senior management receiving the tax break conveyed by the designation "Minister of the Gospel," who they were ministering to I'm not quite sure.
However, in short I was wooed in by what a great opportunity the job appeared to be, blessed with the idea of nearly zero turnover.... however, I later found out that most departing employees usually followed up with a lawsuit. Pick your poison: (1) No boundaries, (2) Chronic and almost obessive micromanagement, at all levels, (3) No transparency pertaining to the work load, and I could just go on and on. Not to mention, the overwhelming amount of extremely difficult personalities, with HR just flapping in the wind... no workforce control at all.
In a nutshell, with a near zero turnover factor, those individuals were some of the nastiest people I've every encountered and it's almost as if, while most people were extremely unhappy, everyone is affraid to leave for fear they'll get hammered when it comes time for a reference..... So, the next time I hear of next to zero turnover, I'll probably run in the opposite direction... especially if its a Christian organization.

Al of CA 2:57AM October 11, 2011

Yes, Yes, Yes ... Danger...Danger...Danger...Like the Robot on Lost in Space. You'll know it, feel it and expect it when you're in one of these interviews. It's happening more often in this economy and current job crisis. Just look at all the Zombie's on Wall Street!!! They want to eat your money and your life. Follow your passion in life and don't forget to enjoy what and who you are; not who and what you work for.

Jack of TN 8:49PM October 07, 2011

That is just about every job I ever apply for. I am always made to feel like an unwelcome interruption AND they never call me back even when they promise to do so.

pigbitinmad of NY 4:02PM October 04, 2011

Alison, Great post! These are really interesting things for a job seeker to take into consideration when looking for a job and waiting for feedback. We also compiled a list of tool for job seekers to use when starting their search. It can be found at http://www.snellingnj.com/candidate-resource-center/ and I hope it helps out anyone looking for more tips!

Emily Carter of NJ 3:56PM October 03, 2011

Good observations. Much better than the unprofessional articles I've seen posted here in the past (usually written by teens/young adults).

RHull of PA 12:46PM September 30, 2011

I'd say the main thing is to always, always, ALWAYS trust your gut. Also, beware if the people seem smug, arrogant or annoying during the interview. If you can perceive that during an interview, that means that they probably appear that way to their customers as well.

Paul of MD 10:42AM September 30, 2011

Thanks, Alison.
Job searches can be agonizing enough, but when employers take too long getting back or appear too frazzled to deal with you, it's time to consider if this job is a good fit.
Jessica
Take the Interview
taketheinterview.com
@taketheview

Jessica of MA 4:34PM September 29, 2011

Number 6 intrueged me because this happened to one of my classmates and she was discouraged. but telling her what your beware signs were she is happy she didnt run back to that company.

Magdaelena Jimenez of OR 4:27PM September 29, 2011

Regarding #2, we are taking LONGER THAN EVER to evaluate people, and continually reevaluate to make sure the ROI on bringing on an employee is still justified. We're a small company, and why make a decision today that we can make tomorrow with more information? The costs of payroll in uncertain times make #2 less of a red flag than in prior years.

Michael of IL 4:22PM September 29, 2011