Job interviews can feel a bit stressful, but they’re more than just an opportunity to impress the interviewer—they’re also your chance to assess whether the job and company are the right fit for you. While it’s natural to focus on presenting yourself in the best possible light, don’t forget to stay alert for potential warning signs that could spell trouble down the line. A job might look great on paper, but interviews often reveal things that aren’t in the job description. Here are five red flags to watch out for during job interviews to help you make informed and confident career decisions. 

1. Confusing Job Descriptions 

A clear job description is key to knowing what you’re applying for. If the interviewer gives you unclear answers when you ask about what you’ll be doing, who you’ll report to, or what’s expected of you, it’s a warning sign. This could mean the company is unorganised or hasn’t figured out what they want from the role—and that can lead to frustration for you later on. 

Questions to Ask: 

• “What would a typical day in this role look like?” 

• “How will my performance be measured?” 

If their answers are vague or they avoid your questions, it might be time to think twice. 

2. High Staff Turnover 

If a company has a lot of people leaving, it can be a sign that something’s not right. High staff turnover could mean there’s poor management, low morale, or even a toxic work culture. You can bring this up in the interview but do it politely. 

Things to Look Out For: 

• If the role has been filled multiple times in a short period. 

• If the interviewer casually mentions that people leave often. 

Questions to Ask: 

• “How long did the last person stay in this role?” 

• “Why did the role become available?” 

These questions can help you figure out if people are leaving because of normal reasons or bigger problems. 

3. Unprofessional Behaviour 

How the interviewer behaves during your meeting says a lot about the company. If they’re late, unprepared, or dismissive, it’s not a good sign. You want to work somewhere that treats you with respect, even during the hiring process. 

Examples of Unprofessional Behaviour: 

• Interrupting you while you’re speaking. 

• Checking their phone or emails during the interview. 

• Speaking negatively about their company or colleagues. 

A good interviewer should be respectful and professional. If they’re not, it might be a clue about how the company operates overall. 

4. No Clear Company Values or Goals 

A strong company should have clear values and goals that guide how they work. If the interviewer can’t explain the company’s mission or how your role fits into their plans, it might mean the organisation lacks direction. 

Questions to Consider: 

• Does the company’s mission align with your own values? 

• Can the interviewer explain how your role will help the company achieve its goals? 

Questions to Ask: 

• “What is the company’s long-term vision?” 

• “What are the company’s core values, and how do they affect daily work?” 

A company with strong goals and values is more likely to have a positive work culture. 

5. Too Many Big Promises 

It’s natural for interviewers to highlight the perks of working at their company, but if they’re making big promises without backing them up, be careful. For example, if they guarantee quick promotions, amazing benefits, or a perfect work-life balance without giving clear details, it’s worth investigating further. 

Examples of Overpromising: 

• Promising lots of growth opportunities but not explaining how. 

• Talking about work-life balance, but it doesn’t match employee reviews online. 

• Claiming the company is very successful without providing evidence. 

Questions to Ask: 

• “Can you share examples of employees who have advanced within the company?” 

• “How does the company support work-life balance?” 

A trustworthy employer will be able to give clear and honest answers to these questions. 

Bonus Tip: Do Your Research 

Before your interview, take time to research the company. Check reviews on websites like Seek or Glassdoor, look at their social media, and, if possible, talk to current or former employees. This can help you confirm if the company is a good fit for you. 

Conclusion

Interviews are a two-way street. While you’re showcasing why you’re the right candidate, it’s equally important to ensure the job and company align with your goals and values. Be mindful of red flags like vague job descriptions, high staff turnover, unprofessional behavior, unclear values, or overpromising. By staying vigilant and asking thoughtful questions, you’ll be equipped to make a confident and informed decision about your next career move. 

Ready to stand out and secure your dream job? Let Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, craft a resume that highlights your strengths and positions you for success. We serve clients across Australia! Call 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com today.