No Eye Contact 

Confident people can carry on a conversation while making eye contact. Whether this is a result of dishonesty or lack of confidence, it could spell trouble to add them to your team. 

Spotty or Inconsistent Work History and Path 

Have your candidate review their work history with you and explain why each position ended. If they reveal that they left their position due to disagreements with managers, they may be difficult employees. If they have made multiple changes in the industry this may show that they will soon get bored with your company and move on. If candidates are unable to explain gaps in employment, they may have issues acquiring and retaining jobs because of their performance. 

Lack of Examples from Work Situations

When asking technical and behavioral questions related to their experience, they should be able to produce answers that recall real-world encounters with actual situations. 

Gossiping

While not everyone will love their prior employers, there should not be a flood of complaints when asked about them. 

Showing Up Late to an Interview or Not Showing Up at All 

This is a sign that they have difficulty with time management. If they cannot make it on time to the all-important interview, how will they behave on a daily basis? If a  candidate reschedules or misses interviews this could signal that they are unreliable. 

Demanding Perks 

When a candidate begins demanding certain schedules, parking accommodations, and the like during an interview they are prone to be a high-maintenance employee. 

Inattentiveness 

Candidates who do not answer the question being asked, repeat the same questions,  or trail off during an interview may not be truly interested in the position. 

Not Asking Questions 

Either they have not given much thought to the position or company or they are not proactive meaning they won’t do the work to find solutions on the job. 

Issues in their Background 

Finding numerous issues in a candidates’ background check may show that they are irresponsible. 

Errors in their Resume and Cover Letter 

When candidates have errors in their resumes, cover letters, and emails with you it could mean that they either rushed through the composition or do not pay attention to detail. 

Unprofessional or Inappropriate Language 

Candidates who use the word “like” or foul language during an interview display a  lack of respect for the process and the interviewer. This is not who you want on your team. 

Showing Up Empty-Handed

A candidate who doesn’t bring a resume or needed documents to the interview shows a lack of motivation and seriousness about the position. 

Taking all the Credit 

While we need candidates to show why they are the best person for the job if they continuously brag about themselves, they may not be team players. 

Unkempt Appearance 

When a candidate does not care enough to put their best foot forward during the interview process, this could be a sign of laziness or that they do not take the position or company seriously. 

Unflattering Online Presence 

When reviewing your client’s online presence look for negative attitudes in their posts,  especially about previous employers, or work in general. Inappropriate photos are a  sign of a lack of professionalism and respect. 

They Seem Overqualified 

Candidates with experience and history in your industry often make a great choice.  But ask them why they want the position as they seem overqualified. They may be using your position as just a pit-stop until they find a better position. 

Summing It Up



It is possible to find the perfect candidate but watching for these small signs and how they perform during the interview session can provide a lot of insight. With these red flags in mind, you will be better prepared to make the best decision for your company. 

Planwell is a recruitment agency passionate about helping companies find the right staff for their production, distribution, and logistics positions. When you need someone on a temporary, contract, or permanent basis, partner with a company with a reputation for providing outstanding candidates and customer service. Partner with  Planwell today! Call us today or visit our contact us page to discuss your staffing needs.