It can be tempting to quickly skim a job description when looking at many job options. But this can waste your time and energy, filling in applications and going for interviews for jobs that aren’t a good fit.

Here are some of the red flags to look out for before deciding whether or not to apply for a job.

1. Vague job description

A good job description should include a general overview of the expected responsibilities, qualifications required and the benefits for a potential employee.

One should be able to fully understand the main objective of the job. Consider it a major red flag if any of the key job descriptions are missing as it may be an indicator the company is looking for a person to do all kinds of work that is outside the scope of the job.

2. Too many requirements

In situations where the requirements are missing or, contrariwise, there are too many of them, employers may not have the slightest idea what they are looking for or what essential skills the candidate should possess.

In this case, it would be very difficult to manage expectations with a recruiter. In addition, the suggested salary should reflect the experience and qualifications.

3. Lack of work-life balance

Take note of recruiters who say, “you should be prepared for late-night work and overtime”.

At times, strict deadlines and important projects are bound to occur and extra work would be required. But if this becomes a daily routine, it shows the company has no regard for the work-life balance of its employees.

Under certain circumstances, if you agree to take on extra work, lay out the terms of compensation. Otherwise, this job may lead to the risk of a fast burnout and jeopardise your personal life.

4. One-sided job listings

Both the employer and the employee should have a mutual understanding of their relationship.

If the benefits provided by the company are not included, this should be viewed as a red flag. It is an indicator the employer is looking at the employee’s results and disregarding their interests.

This could lead to serious issues when negotiating salary, promotions, compensation package or any other conditions.

If an application is submitted, be prepared to discuss benefits during the job interview.

If the recruiter is vague about the career path, bonuses or profit, consider declining the position. Be on the lookout for recruiters who intend to change the terms of employment during the application process.

5. Working for free is suggested

A dependable, decent employer values the time and resources of existing or potential employees. That is why they pay for internships and any test job produced by an applicant.

If the employer suggests a free trial period, decline the offer. Some companies make use of the ideas provided or the work done by interns or lay people on sample tasks.

6. Low salary and few benefits

A good compensation package can be one of the best reasons for taking a job offer, even if the salary is not that high.

For example, a good insurance plan or three weeks of paid leave can be worth a lot more annually.

The problem arises when a lower wage is not reimbursed with any benefits. A red flag would be if an individual proposes an expected salary and the offer is lower without any additional benefits.

7. Sharing the basic salary instead of earning potential

What if the recruiter offers a lower salary while promising higher compensation once the probation period is over? This could be a bad sign. Think twice before considering the promise of great bonuses in the future or when the company grows.

When part of the wage depends on targets in the contract, ask how many workers are successful in achieving it.

Take note of an employer who overstates the possibility of earning the highest bonuses. Jobs with extra risk are those with a wide range of wages, which means that the salary is potentially lower but the recruiter needs to attract attention to the job.

8. Dead-end job

When an individual works for a company, it benefits from their performance, but it also contributes to professional development. This is a good reason why career plans must be discussed and matched with the companies promotion policies.

If the recruiter is unable to present extensive descriptions of how a career path can be established at the company, there is a risk the individual is investing a few years in the same job with zero opportunities for growth.

9. Complicated application process

Some prominent organisations may have complex procedures or ask applicants to provide additional documentation. Employers should be prepared to explain why they are necessary.

If one has gone through multiple interviews and each step of the application process is still unclear, something is not right.

Take note if the company decides to postpone the starting date of the job. This is a clear sign of an unreliable employer who does not follow up on arrangements.

10. Poor employee ratings

Before sending an application, thoroughly research the company. Too many bad company reviews is a bad sign.

Go through the list of complaints and what the employees were unhappy about in the responses from the company.

If there is a contact within the company, reach out to the person and ask questions for a clearer vision of what the potential job will be like.

If current and ex-employees have nothing positive to say about their employer, think twice about applying.

This article first appeared in jobstore.com.

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