When you see a job posting that catches your attention, it’s only natural to feel a surge of excitement. Before submitting your application and resume, it’s crucial to step back and carefully analyze the job description to uncover any potential red flags. Certain phrases can be an indication of potential issues that may significantly impact your job satisfaction and overall well-being. Here’s a list of common phrases in job postings that may indicate a less-than-ideal work environment.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Must work well under pressure”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: This place is a hot mess.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “We’re a family”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: Work-life balance is nonexistent, so we’re your new family now!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Fast-paced environment”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: You’ll feel like a hamster on a wheel and will never be able to give your best effort to anything.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Flexible hours / flexible schedule”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: Your schedule will vary according to what’s convenient for THEM.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Willing to wear many hats”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: You’ll be doing the job of two or three people.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Work hard, play hard”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: We have a gym and a foosball table so you can relieve your stress during your 12-hour work days.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “This is more than just a job.”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: You’ll be on call 24/7.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝘆: “Unlimited earning potential”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻: Don’t expect a predictable salary – pay is probably 100% commission.
While one or two of these phrases in a job posting may not be a true indication of a poor work environment, use your discretion. If there are multiple “red flag” phrases in a job posting, use LinkedIn to reach out to a few of the employer’s current or former employees to inquire about the employer’s culture BEFORE you apply. These exploratory efforts may take a little more time and effort on the front end, but such conversations can save you a lot of time and aggravation in the long run.