Because You Deserve Better Than a Toxic Gig
You’ve nailed the interview, negotiated your worth, and now you’re staring at a job offer—or maybe you’re still hunting. Either way, here’s the truth: not every gig is a golden ticket. Some are ticking time bombs disguised as “opportunities.” In this Real Talk episode, we’re spilling the tea on how to sniff out the red flags before you sign your life away. No rose-tinted glasses, just the gritty reality of dodging a job that’ll drain your soul.
Red Flag #1: Vague Job Descriptions (or No Description at All)
If the ad reads like a motivational poster—“Join our dynamic team!”—but says jack about what you’ll actually do, run. Same goes if they dodge your questions in the interview with “Oh, it’s a bit of everything.” Translation: they don’t know, or worse, it’s a dumping ground for crap no one else wants to handle. A legit gig spells out the role, even if it’s broad. Ask: “What’s a typical day look like?” If they can’t answer, you’re walking into chaos.
Red Flag #2: High Turnover Vibes
Check the company’s LinkedIn or Glassdoor. If it’s a revolving door of “ex-employees” with six-month stints, something’s rotten. In the interview, flip the script: “How long do people usually stay in this role?” If they squirm or say, “Well, it’s a fast-paced environment,” that’s code for “We burn people out.” Bonus points if they trash the last person who had the job—shows they don’t own their shit.
Red Flag #3: The “Work Hard, Play Hard” Trap
Sounds fun, right? Free beers on Fridays! Except it’s often a shiny wrapper for “We’ll work you to death and toss you a cheap perk to shut up.” Probe deeper: “What’s the overtime policy?” or “How do you handle deadlines?” If they brag about all-nighters or “hustle culture,” you’re not joining a team—you’re joining a cult. Balance matters, especially in SA where burnout’s already a national pastime.
Red Flag #4: Sketchy Pay Talk
If they’re cagey about salary—“We’ll sort it out later”—or push you to name your number first without a range, they’re playing games. Worse if they hint at “exposure” or “growth” instead of cash. Ask straight up: “What’s the budget for this role?” No answer? No thanks. In South Africa, where every rand counts, you can’t afford to gamble on promises.
Red Flag #5: Gut Check Fails
Ever leave an interview feeling… off? Maybe the boss interrupted you constantly, or the team looked like they hadn’t slept since 2023. Trust that vibe. Your gut’s not psychic, but it’s picking up signals your brain hasn’t processed yet. Ask yourself: “Would I grab a beer with these people?” If the answer’s “Hell no,” don’t kid yourself into thinking 40 hours a week will be better.
How to Dig Deeper (Without Looking Like a Paranoid Freak)
- Ask Pointed Questions: “What’s the biggest challenge the team’s facing right now?” Their answer reveals more than a PR script.
- Scope the Scene: If it’s in-person, clock the office vibe. Dead silence or fake cheer? Neither’s good.
- Tap the Network: Know someone who knows someone? Get the off-record scoop. X posts or Reddit threads can spill tea too—just take the salt with it.
Real Talk Takeaway
A job’s not just a paycheck; it’s where you’ll spend most of your waking hours. Don’t let desperation or shiny promises blind you to the warning signs. You’ve got the skills to land something good—hold out for a gig that doesn’t make you dread Mondays.
Next up in Real Talk: How to bounce back when a job screws you over. Keep it locked.