#1

It's a bait and switch tactic coupled with the sunk cost fallacy. The "new" position will be identical to the original one you applied for - except the salary is significantly lower. They're hoping that you'll play along because you showed up to be interviewed, probably desperate for work and will accept any job - no matter the wage.
Furthermore, the position you applied for doesn't really exist - or at least not at the advertised wage.
#2

At the end, my ex directed a question at the female leader about her experiences there as a female leader.
The ceo jumped in before she could answer and answered for her.
That said a lot.
#3

In an interview with Bored Panda, the OP shared that they decided to start a thread on the topic after they were laid off from their job. “It was a very toxic environment to work in. I’ve been attending job interviews this week and wanted to be aware of what to look out for,” they shared.
“I found [the discussion] very beneficial because I’m now keeping all these answers in mind as I attend job interviews while looking for a job.”
#5

Me: "how much are you paying?"
"Minimum wage".
“I’ve noticed that when management says they treat everyone like family that it ends up being a lie,” u/photo_inbloom said, asked about the red flags they have observed firsthand when interviewing for a job. “When managers say that, they actually have favorites and treat everyone else like garbage. They do not care about you and only see you as a number rather than as a human being.”
#6

#7

#8

According to the OP, it’s extremely important to pay attention and keep such red flags in mind, especially during job interviews. “I’m guilty of ignoring red flags and I’m trying to get better at not doing that,” they admitted.
“I think that even if a job sounds perfect you need to really dive into what is expected of you and how the company words things when interviewing you. Anything could be a trap and you need to be careful – carefully consider everything they are telling you and perhaps even write it all down. Speak to a friend and get their second opinion on it as well.”
#9

Seriously, *every single* job I've worked that said that during an interview was toxic and grossly underpaid.
#10

1. Check the condition of employees' cars.
2. Check building condition.
#11

Spoilers: The overtime is mandatory.
According to Jill Panté, the director of the Lerner College Career Services Center and an expert in professional development and interviewing, it’s important for interviewees to pay attention to potential red flags as they act as an early warning system for what the job may become.
“Paying attention to different types of red flags can help job seekers avoid entering a workplace that may not align with their professional goals,” she said. “For example, if the company is vague about the culture, career advancement, or daily responsibilities and expectations, that could be a warning sign or a red flag that the company is disorganized and may suggest internal confusion and instability.”
#12

#13

#14

My current job gave me MULTIPLE examples of how their team members impressed them. That's how I knew I wanted to work there.
In comparison, when I asked this in another interview, the answer was, "There's so many instances and I can't focus on only one." which I interpreted as, "I don't value my staff in the least." I was glad not to get that offer.
Asked about the red flags Jill Panté herself would advise interviewees to be aware of, she emphasized lack of professionalism, unclear expectations, poor communication, lack of flexibility, and high turnover as some of the main ones to watch out for. “These warning signs can indicate deeper problems with the company such as toxic leadership, disorganization, and lack of regard for employee well-being.”
#15

I interviewed for a window installation company and did well on the test. They wanted me in sales and said I needed to pay for a laptop. They would cover it and take it out of my checks if I didn't have the cash to pay upfront.
#16

#17

“Asking questions during the interview process is imperative to make sure you uncover or address any red flags as well as making sure the company is aligned with your career goals,” J. Panté told Bored Panda, suggesting that addressing red flags can help clear the air around certain matters, whether it works to the advantage or disadvantage of the company.
“For example, if you want to work for a company that invests in its employees’ career growth, ask questions about a typical career path, opportunities to learn new skills, or the reasons why the previous person left the role. These questions can help you figure out the company’s commitment to their employees.”
#18

Learned this the hard way.
#19
#20

Asking questions is also important if the interviewee doesn't form too good of a first impression of the company, as it might be worth giving the benefit of the doubt.
“The first impression often sets the tone for the overall perception of a company,” J. Panté noted, “But if job seekers experience a bad first impression, I recommend doing a little more research on the company (using resources like Glassdoor or LinkedIn) and giving it a second chance before walking away.
“If you are given the job offer and still have reservations, request another call to address your concerns before making a final decision. For companies, a low job offer acceptance rate should prompt a thorough review of the hiring process to identify areas for improvement.”



