Potential job offer

Anonymous

November 29,2022 at 8:27PM UTC

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Potential job offer

I was contacted by an outside recruiter, about a job opportunity for a client. I am definitely qualified for the job and it seems like a good opportunity. I went through the phone screens and I'm now moving to the next step, which is the video interview with the client. When I researched this company, I found that there are issues with Executive Management from Supervisors. Other employees have commented about the cons of this organization. They all say the same thing. One thing that stood out.... was the lack of diversity in this organization and no room for advancement. This is making me very uneasy and I'm not sure, if I want to take the offer, if it is presented. Some companies seem to downplay negative reviews and some don't even address them at all. During my research they say it is important that companies address all feedback whether it's positive or negative. I just found it strange that people with the titles of Supervisor, Manager, Vice President and Assistant Vice President are making these comments. I also wanted to point out... that this is the second recruiter, in less than 10 months, that has reached out to me, about working for this company. When I researched the client 6 months ago, I came across the same issue. I understand that the decision is ultimately mine but I just wanted to hear some other points of view on this platform.

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KarenNovember 29,2022 at 8:57PM UTC
Good for you for doing your research. Here are some trains of thought - have you addressed your findings and concerns with the recruiter/s? They may not be honest with you but at least you will be honest with them. Has the leadership changed since the negative reviews? Why are they hiring for your role? Did someone leave or get promoted? How bad do you need this job? If you have other offers or are happy where you are, do you want to continue in the interview process with them? If you accept, what is the worst-case scenario? Will you be able to find work elsewhere? What you like about this opportunity, are you able to find it in another company? Be encouraged in your skillset that they liked you enough to reach out to you twice.
AnonymousNovember 29,2022 at 9:11PM UTC
Thank you Karen! Yes, I did bring this up with the recruiter and she kind of downplayed it. Then I remembered that..... she will get a fee, if I am hired, so her job is to stay neutral. The company is huge, so I don't know if the leadership has changed, there were many different departments. I think someone left the company and this is why they need another person. I really do need a job. And lastly, the recruiters work for an outside entity. There were two different recruiters, who contacted me, regarding my skillset, for two different positions, in a span of 10 months.
AnonymousNovember 29,2022 at 9:32PM UTC
First off, while it's great you have arrived at the interview stage, don't get too far ahead of yourself with decisions regarding a future offer. You make those decisions if and when an offer is actually presented
Further, I would go through the steps of interviewing. It's great practice and a good opportunity to vet the company on your on terms. Ask all the great questions and determine if there is a potential fit and if they can afford your asking price, title abd meet you benefit and bonus demands.
I NEVER shut the door on an opportunity (or in this case a potential opportunity) based on a few bad reviews. That would be ludicrous. While you weigh those reviews in with all your research, networking and instincts, you will eventually come up with an inform assessment of the company, the roll and overall benefit to you.
I suggest you keep online reviews in perspective just incase there is an offer worth your time in considering.
Carey ANovember 29,2022 at 11:00PM UTC
I ran into a similar situation a few years ago. I asked the recruiter about the many negative Glassdoor ratings, and gave me what seemed to be an honest explanation of the cultural problems they were having. In the end, it was too risky to take the job considering I'd have to move. I recommend going through the interview process for the practice and give them a chance to convince you. I would absolutely bring up your research and ask them to address it.
AnonymousNovember 30,2022 at 4:40PM UTC
Thank you Carey A! That's exactly what I'm going to do.
ChrishoggDecember 1,2022 at 1:58PM UTC
I have no clue what you should do, and I don't think any of us have enough information to offer advice. And it sounds like you don't have enough data to make a clear-cut decision (I'm a feeler, not a thinker, so there's that as well, how you normally make decisions).
I will offer this old saying as something for you to consider: if it waddles like a duck, swims like a duck, flies like a duck, and quacks like a duck ... it's probably a duck.
One thing you could do, is get on LinkedIn, search for five or so folks at your proposed level and role who FORMERLY worked at the company, contact / connect with them, and ask them for an evaluation of working there.
GirlBossanova934974December 1,2022 at 2:01PM UTC
So six months ago, this company was a NO-GO. Diversity is what you are looking for and this company's record on said topic as reported on Glassdoor was a deal breaker. So the same thing is present today. What is going to change? What are you going to ask during the interview that is going to make this change? How would an interviewer respond to this to make this issue become a non deal breaker? You either have a diverse workforce or not, right? Hard to talk your way around this one, no??
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 2:16PM UTC
Sounds as if you are blaming her for even asking the question. If you cannot provide a helpful answer, then just don’t.
Afo Ogbeyalu KaluDecember 1,2022 at 2:14PM UTC
I typically encourage my clients to discuss during their interviews, the things they learned about the organization during their research. I suggest that you do the same. Ask whether or not leadership is aware of the company's online reputation, and the feedback that former employees, with experiences at different levels of the organization, are posting, and what is being done to counter the impression. The response of the interviewer would be telling, and better inform your decision to consider working at the company.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:39PM UTC
I love this comment! Thank you
Nick KossovanDecember 1,2022 at 2:17PM UTC
My advice: Do the interview and mention your concerns.
If you you get a 2nd interview, or an offer, then insist (this is a non-negotiable) that you spend 1/2 a day with those who'll be you colleagues and even have lunch with them.
Several times I've turned down jobs because of what transpired over having lunch with my 'would be' colleagues... then there's gut feel.
Never take a job without first spending significant time assessing the workplace and your potential colleagues and boss.
As for online reviews... since they can be easily manipulated they're meaningless. Do your own due diligence.
On another note:
For a constant flow of real-world advice on job searching and career management, do yourself a favour and subscribe to my free "The Art of Finding Work" newsletter.https://artoffindingwork.substack.com/
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:40PM UTC
I appreciate your comment Nick! Thank you!
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 2:22PM UTC
I have ignored these same warning signs twice in my career and regretted it both times.
Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterDecember 1,2022 at 2:52PM UTC
All interviews do not lead to offers (says this recruiter).
However, recruiters are likely aware of the negative reviews (it's a hazard of the job) and we are prepared to face those questions head-on. (and some are highly ethical and will admit there's a challenge and that's why they are working to change things - and even give you an overview of what's in the works to change a culture (it doesn't happen overnight and most recruiters aren't going to tell you EVERYTHING they've been privy to in confidential meetings)
And yes, air your concerns - in the form of questions "What is Company's internal Talent growth process? How does the organization support employees as they expand their skills?" etc.
And yes, like Nick said, gut feel is important.
and if they don't let you spend a half day with the team - do your own sleuthing. Use LinkedIn to find people who are former employees - not just those who may be "anonymous" on those job-bashing sites. And reach out via LinkedIn with a connect request saying something like, "Hi, I'm currently in final interviews with COMPANY and I see you worked with them - would you have any advice for me?" (double points if you search for people in the department/title you would have if you are hired.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:41PM UTC
I appreciate your comment Peggie! Thank you
Joann S. LublinDecember 1,2022 at 3:16PM UTC
Another possible option: once you go through all the interviews and get an offer but still have some lingering doubts, I suggest you start as a short-term consultant for several months. You'll get an inside look at the corporate culture and causes of its lack of diversity. And you can walk away with some valuable experience if you decide against working there permanently.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:41PM UTC
Thank you Joann!
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 3:24PM UTC
There's already some great advice but something I'd add to consideration is that you were contacted 10 months ago by a different recruiter. That shows that whatever cultural, interpersonal, structural or other issue the company had... it's still there and it will stay there (at least for a while; change doesn't happen overnight). While I don't know all the details, the clues do point to the CEO and typically that's where problems starts.......
I completely agree with the advice to insist on a 1/2 day to meet the team. At the end of the day, you should ask yourself "is this worth the emotional toll?" because that will part of the job, based on the reviews.
Victoria NoltenDecember 1,2022 at 3:48PM UTC
I don’t think I’ve ever read some much racism in one post. Frankly it is shocking.
maybe include your name next time so people know who is so incredibly asinine.
Elizabeth KeithDecember 1,2022 at 3:50PM UTC
Agreed.
Crystal HowellDecember 1,2022 at 4:10PM UTC
Contact the others that worked there on linkedin, during theinterview ask about what is your DE&I policy, what is the process for career growth. Check their body language as you ask. Maybe they had a change of management, check each one out on linked in , see how long they were there.
Be careful, go with your gut
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:34PM UTC
Dear Anonymous,
I am concerned because there really is so much hate in your comment. I hope getting it out on this forum will help you be more kind to your human brothers and sisters you encounter today (virtually or physically).
You’ve said a whole lot and you really should really consider reflecting on life, how you show up, and how you can make the world a much better place even with what you post online. Think about it.
Zeecil KimmelDecember 1,2022 at 4:38PM UTC
When I wanted to change jobs I found someone on LinkedIn that worked for the company and asked if I could have a bit of time and then asked them about what it was like working for the company. I think that would give you more accurate information. Extra points if you can find someone who has a similar title to the one you are going for.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 4:45PM UTC
Once I started reading your comments, I realized that you were being racist , which is really sad. Please leave your racist opinions to yourself and do not offer your ignorant ideologies on this platform. I will also notify Fairygodboss of this.
DeBorah WalkerDecember 1,2022 at 4:50PM UTC
You are not sure about this position; and you've had red flags pointed out; so I would go through the interview process and when you are asked if you have any questions; address your concern diplomatically. You have nothing to lose but (knowledge) You are not gung ho about it anyway.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 5:09PM UTC
I would wait to see if you ever get an interview in person at said company. Getting a feel for the place will be important.
But also, headhunter style recruiting usually means that the company is hurting for workers. Usually that means a high turnover rate. I've generally found that if a company actively reaches out unsolicited then you do end up with the job, but it's never a good experience once you're actually an employee.
Molly WebbDecember 1,2022 at 7:58PM UTC
I had this same reaction (regarding headhunter style recruiting). My gut sense would be to be straight up with the recruiter to let them know you've seen the reviews. Maybe they can provide some additional insight? Or at the very least, if you receive the offer and then decline, it might be useful feedback for management folks.
AnonymousDecember 2,2022 at 4:09AM UTC
Couldn’t disagree more especially in the current environment. I got my (wonderful) job as CEO though a cold call from a headhunter and I hired an amazing VP of IT through the same process. We’re both happy in our positions. Generalizations are always flawed at best.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 5:19PM UTC
If in doubt, don't do it. But if you pulled this information from more than one source, then your findings should not be skewed.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 6:19PM UTC
Key word "potential ". You shouldn't make assumptions. Check them out yourself unless you don't feel they are worth your time.
You may not even receive an offer. What you don't have is information. Online reviews and chatter are a small part of understanding who a company is.
AnonymousDecember 1,2022 at 6:42PM UTC
This sounds risky. Why do you feel it’s a good opportunity? Is it a step up in role or title or a pay rise? Are you currently unhappy in your current role or actively trying to leave or concerned about your company’s future?
Weigh the risk vs the possible reward. Assume the reviews of the company are true and at least partially representative of what you might face if you worked there. Is there enough of a pay raise or other upside to justify experiencing the negative environment?
Shelby CDecember 1,2022 at 7:35PM UTC
If you were concerned enough to write this, you should likely trust your intuition.
AnonymousDecember 2,2022 at 10:43AM UTC
I had an interview with an insurance company and did pass the first 2 interviews with them until I started reading the reviews on glassdoor and the client's comments on social media which weren't promising at all, then I decided to step back. I didn't want to be part of it even if the position fits me and salary is great.
Diane ReidDecember 2,2022 at 3:30PM UTC
Absolutely trust your gut. No amount of money is worth sacrificing your values.
tiffany birchDecember 2,2022 at 10:31PM UTC
What are your deal breakers? Does the job match up with your values? It seems diversity and advancement is important to you. Why settle on what you don't want? Sometimes, the Universe sends us a pop quiz to see if we are still on track. How will you feel if you take this job? Trust your gut.
Patricia ManroeDecember 3,2022 at 4:42AM UTC
I would have to consider it very carefully. As it sounds the company may have problems from the comments you've seen.