Red Flags Aren't Just About Dating Anymore (they apply to hiring too)

Red Flags to Watch for in an Interview

Hiring the wrong person isn’t just a mistake—it’s an expensive one. And while some red flags are obvious (like showing up late with a bad attitude), others are more subtle. Here are the warning signs to watch for when interviewing candidates:

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1. They Blame Everyone Else

If a candidate has a long list of past jobs where everyone was the problem—bad managers, toxic workplaces, unfair expectations—consider that they might be the common denominator.

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2. They Give Vague or Dodgy Answers

When you ask about experience, do they confidently explain their role and contributions, or do they dodge the details? If someone can’t clearly articulate what they did, there’s a chance they didn’t actually do it.

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3. They Have No Questions

A candidate who asks zero questions isn’t just underprepared—they might not care enough about the role. Good candidates want to know about your team, culture, and expectations.

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4. They Overpromise but Can’t Back It Up

Confidence is great, but when a candidate claims they "can do everything" without real examples or results, that’s a red flag. The best hires know what they do well—and what they’re still learning.

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5. They Don’t Respect the Interview Process

Are they late? Do they interrupt? Are they texting mid-call? These little things might seem minor, but they show a lack of professionalism and respect.

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Red flags don’t always mean an automatic no—but they do mean you should dig deeper. Trust your instincts, ask follow-up questions, and make sure you’re hiring someone who’s the right fit for your team.

What’s the biggest red flag you’ve seen in an interview? Let’s hear them! 🚩👇

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