So you’re filling in job applications for all the top companies that populate the IT parks in Pune, imagining your glowing career trajectory, and hoping that you actually manage to land the job that’ll make your dreams come true. But hold up your grand plans for a moment and look at that job a bit more closely. What stands out to you about it? Is it the actual job description and role, or are you more fascinated by the brand? Are you going to be a right fit for the organization’s culture or is it too uptight for you? Does it match your salary expectations and provide scope for continuous growth or will you be stuck in a dead-end role?
If you’re not sure about the answers to these questions, there’s a chance your dream job could end up not being the best direction for you. After all, some things look great on paper but the lived reality just doesn’t match up. To save you from any potential nightmares, we’ve got you a list of things to consider during the application and interview process so you can be clear on the warning signs. Because, you should only sign a job offer that’s best for you.
There is a lot of disorganization
This isn’t just something you get to know after you join a company, there are several clues you can look for during the application process that will help you understand whether your organisation is on the right track. If you just can’t figure out what the responsibilities for your role are from either the job description or the recruitment team, consider it a red flag. You should have a clear idea about expectations before you’re hired so that you can be best prepared for the job, and make smart decisions between different offers. And if you’re going through multiple rounds of interviews, make sure each interviewer gives the same information about the job role to avoid confusion. Another warning sign about disorganisation in your future firm could be in the logistics of the interview process itself. Do your meetings keep getting rescheduled? Is there a really long waiting time for responses to emails? Are people unprepared or late for interviews? All these issues can point towards deeper problems within the organisation that could make things difficult for you at a later stage.
They have a high turnover
It’s no secret these days that most firms have a quick turnover rate, especially among new hires. But if that rate is suspiciously high, it could be an indication of various issues within the organisation. Perhaps there are problems with management, less scope for career development, or financial difficulties faced by the organisation. Either way, you don’t want to be the last person stuck on the Titanic when everyone else is jumping ship.
They have a negative environment
This is kind of a no-brainer. Of course you don’t want to join an organisation that will sap you of your energy and motivation. You want a company that will foster innovation and growth. So, make sure you check the reviews for your company on platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor so that you’re aware of the culture and any problems in the environment. Going a step further, you could also reach out to people in your network who might be working in the company to ask them for their opinions and feedback. Keep an ear out for any complaints that you find repeated across the board as this may indicate a systemic issue in the organisation. Finally, when you’re actually in the office for your interview, look around and see if the environment is something that you resonate with. Is the office an open space that encourages collaboration and does not have strong hierarchies? Or are you noticing raised voices and unhappy employees? All of this will help you decide whether the company is actually as great as it seems.
Their negotiation process is really difficult
Getting the job of your dreams should not feel like bargaining for a pair of shoes on Fashion Street or convincing the landlord to lower the rent at a PG for girls in Pune. If the recruitment team is making it really difficult for you to negotiate for what you deserve, you might want to reconsider your choice of organization. Don’t accept below-market salaries, especially if you think the company isn’t big on raises or promotions. Excessively difficult negotiations during the hiring process could just be indicative of how difficult other negotiations will be once you’ve got the job, so it might be a good idea to steer clear of firms playing hardball.
They want to hire you on-the-spot
Hear us out, we’re not trying to take away your achievements. If you’ve impressed your interviewers, they may give you an indication that you’ve got the job at the time of the interview itself. And that’s fine. But if they’re whipping out a contract without taking any time for internal consultations or discussions, you might want to be on your guard. An on-the-spot offer may be a huge boost to your ego, but it could also hint that the company is quite desperate for new blood or might want to get a commitment before you’re able to do further research (which might turn up something negative). So, take such offers with a pinch of salt, and don’t sign a contract until you’re absolutely certain.
While your dream job might seem fine and dandy from the outside, you can only know it’s reality by having clear expectations and doing your own research. So, follow our tips and keep an eye out for any warning signs.