Not every job is worth the handshake. Some sound great, pay well, and still feel wrong the minute you walk in. If you’ve ever accepted something and regretted it by week two, read on.

Here’s how to catch the red flags early.

What to look for

• The job ad is vague or full of buzzwords

• The interview feels rushed or messy

• Nobody can explain what success looks like

• The role seems way below or above your experience

• Your gut says something feels off

Trust that feeling. It’s usually right.

Questions to ask

• What does success look like in the first 90 days?

• Why is this role open?

• What type of person has done well here?

• What are the biggest challenges in this role?

Their answers will tell you what you need to know.

Take your time

If something doesn’t sit right, it’s okay to walk away. A bad-fit job can undo a lot of good progress. The right one will feel right from the start.

Need help gut-checking an offer?