Newsletter Archives /Today's Career Voice - May 2009
Should You Compromise to Secure a Job?
Some people have a hard time turning down offers, especially when the economy is tough, the news is often scary, and jobs seem scarce. However, just because a job is (or seems) to be available doesn’t mean you should jump without thinking long and hard first.
Do your homework.
Not all businesses are ethical or even legitimate. It’s very important to carefully research any company that offers you a job (this should be done before interviews, but more should be done if an offer is made). Do online research, but also ask around and see if anyone in your network or your friends’ networks knows about the company or the people who have offered you the job.
Go with your gut.
If something doesn’t seem right to you, it probably isn’t. Furthermore, if any behavior by the people you interview with seems unprofessional or just doesn’t feel right, listen to those feelings. If at any point you feel pressured to take the job without considering it or if you feel threatened or mistreated, turn it down.
Keep your eyes and ears open during the interview.
Before and during your interview, look around. What is the environment like? What are the people like? Does it seem like a well-run place where people are reasonably happy, or does the entire operation just seem wrong? Try visiting the restrooms—if they are clean, that’s a good sign. If they are dirty, it could mean that coworkers have no pride in their workplace and may be an indicator of other major problems. If you are offered a job without an interview, that is a red flag. Do some serious research before you accept and ask why you are not being interviewed.
Don’t let yourself get taken advantage of.
If you’re asked to do a great deal of work before you are offered the job, walk away. Although is highly unethical, some businesses prey on the desperation of job seekers to try to get free work done in the name of the “interview process.” Don’t let businesses like that get the best of you. Also, if you’re promised work but are told you will not be paid for any reason, end the relationship. Working without pay is not acceptable.
Don’t let worry or fear of not finding the right position get you down. There are jobs out there, and taking one at just any company isn’t the right thing. It may seem like a good quick fix, but quick fixes don’t tend to last long and you could end up selling yourself short.
