Brian Lawrence

6 Red flags to look out for when you’re job hunting

The job market is a weird place, especially in Jamaica, and especially for people in media and marketing.

I’ve encountered too many jobs with sneaky or ridiculous requirements (some I’ve fallen for myself) and I believe it’s important to point out some of the things that get posted so that people are less likely to be taken advantage of.

You really should look out for these red flags when you’re looking for a job, and don’t engage if you see them because your sanity and dignity aren’t worth it:

 

🚩 Two job titles merged into one (e.g. Sales AND Marketing Manager)

🚩 More than one distinct type of responsibility in a single role (e.g. design graphics for the company AND manage social media platforms AND write blog posts for the website)

🚩 No mention of how being at the company will benefit YOU beyond getting a regular salary (and getting paid is NOT a benefit, it’s a requirement)

🚩 Stating that you may be required to take on additional work and be a “team player”

🚩 The same job has been listed for months (if the role isn’t being filled, it’s best to find out why not and then leave it alone)

🚩 The same job keeps getting reposted (this is usually a sign of high turnover in the role)

 

Finding a job can be tough. But no matter how much you need an income, never settle for something with any of these red flags. They’re too stressful and unreasonable.

Mental health and wellness is a real issue. No one is going to take care of your stress for you, so you should do all you can to make sure you maintain a good headspace. And since you spend so much time at work, this is a good place to start.