Looking for a new job should be an exciting time.
It is a clear sign that you are ready to spread your wings and take on new challenges – but that all relies on being in the right environment to foster that. When searching for a new job, you must evaluate the role and the company culture to assess the new environment.
Few companies are 100% transparent about employee satisfaction scores, so you need to learn creative ways to identify an unhappy workplace.
Below are five tips for identifying a hostile work environment during the interview stage:
Ambiguous Job Role
No matter what job you are interviewing for, there must be a clear indication of what is expected.
If the person interviewing you is vague on the job’s roles and responsibilities – be alert!
While not being boxed in might sound appealing, it can indicate a lack of transparency. Employees need clear expectations, and vague or nondescript phrases will lead to employee burnout or a fear of punishment for being honest.
Above and Beyond Culture
While going “above and beyond” has become such a commonly used phrase, you might not realize just how toxic that concept is.
There is often no reasonable way to define “above” or “beyond” and if that phrase comes up during your interview, then you should run for the hills!
That mindset typically pits coworkers against each other, leading to a workplace severely lacking in trust, innovation, and healthy relationships. Not all companies are explicit about this policy, so look for discreet signs that this might be the case including, questions surrounding family commitments or priorities.
Cult-Like Family References
A company that refers to its employees as a family can be an immediate red flag.
While it may seem acceptable and endearing, a workplace that refers to its employees as a family may indicate blurred boundaries. If you read between the lines, that could tell you that the company promotes working outside of business hours and expects unwavering dedication.
Be on the lookout for explicit or unspoken expectations for you to devote a disproportionate amount of time to your job.
If you are already in that situation with your current job, look for an established legal firm with employment law experience.
Interviewer Behavior
During your job interview, pay attention to your interviewer’s behavior.
The ideal interviewer should be calm, confident, and genuinely interested in getting to know you. The right candidate must be able to do the job and fit into the environment, making their personality a vital part of the equation.
If your interviewer appears anxious or unsure of themselves, it could mean their nervous system is in overdrive – a clear indication of a toxic workplace.
Be Observant
While you need to be observant during your interview, toxic workplaces tend to stick out like a sore thumb.
When in doubt, look at the other employees and decide if they look happy. Happy employees do not look stressed, panicked, or indifferent. Everyone has a different response to toxicity, but one common thing can indicate danger – unhappiness.
Instead of guessing, you could even ask a few employees on your way out. While they might be brainwashed into not telling the truth, you should be able to see it in their eyes.
To End
Lastly, when identifying a toxic workplace – trust your gut. Intuition can be a valuable tool, so if something feels off during your interview, take that feeling seriously and walk away.
A positive work environment is vital for your well-being and professional growth.
