Surprising Warning Signs in Job Descriptions
If you've ever browsed LinkedIn or Craigslist looking for a new employment opportunity, chances are you've come across a handful of job-listing clichés that seem to mean one thing, but may well be code for slightly different-and often less positive-duties, expectations, and company cultures. Beware of these common potential warning signs during your next job search.
Fast-Paced Environment
This is probably the most common job description cliché. Recruiters might just toss it in to try and weed out the laziest of potential applicants, but it might also be a warning that the office is chaotic and super-high-pressure. And it's a potential red flag that your employers won't have time to mentor you.
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Duties Will Vary
Unless you're looking to get the broadest possible experience from a job, you might want to steer clear of jobs that say duties may vary. This usually means the company needs someone to do a little bit-or a lot-of everything. Or they might not even know what they need someone to do-just that they need someone to do it. This may lead to you being overwhelmed and burnt out before you know it.
Must Have a Good Sense of Humor
This may sound strange, but we've noticed it popping up in more and more job descriptions. While you may want to believe the company is looking for a candidate who is a big South Park fan, it could mean trouble. The phrase might indicate the company culture tends to be a little inappropriate, so they're looking for people they think can hang with that. It might also mean you're going to be in a totally stressful, chaotic environment and they're looking for someone they think won't fall to pieces because of it.
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Lots of Perks
If a company is offering lots of perks, like free lunches, chair massages, or a pet-friendly environment, chances are they're in place to make up for the fact you're going to be working very long hours. Unless you're comfortable with regular 12-hour (or longer!) days, you might want to look for a position without the perks. $8 for lunch every massage-less day is totally worth being home to walk the dog by 6pm!
More common phrases to look out for!
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