Why are some teams unstoppable while others always seem to be barely trying to survive the day? Oftentimes, it boils down to hiring—and not necessarily who gets hired, but who doesn’t. Hiring a role isn’t about filling a hole; it’s about defending culture, morale, and long-term success. Here are the 10 most critical red and green flags to watch out for in both hiring and workplace culture, numbered from 10 to 1.
10. Ignoring Culture as a Priority
Great workplace cultures don’t happen overnight. Signs like leaders who actually listen to feedback, a safe environment where mistakes are treated as part of learning, and a sincere approach to diversity and inclusion are all green flags. If those are missing, it’s usually a sign that bigger issues are hiding under the surface. A company that doesn’t value these things isn’t just behind the times—it may not be a healthy place to grow.
9. Forgetting That Work Needs to Mean Something
Money makes people show up, but purpose makes them stay. Employees want to believe that their work makes a difference, that they’re contributing to something greater, and that they have the opportunity to grow. When candidates observe during the interview process that a job feels empty or that growth opportunities don’t exist, it’s a red flag. Conversely, when an organization indicates clearly that contributions from people do make a difference, it’s a strong green flag for motivation and retention.
8. Underestimating Attitude and Emotional Intelligence
Technical abilities can be learned, but emotional intelligence and attitude are much more difficult to mold. Leaders such as Danny Meyer place greater value on qualities such as empathy, curiosity, integrity, and optimism over credentials alone. Those qualities not only enable individuals to excel but also elevate the entire team. A job candidate who demonstrates emotional sensitivity and humility is much more likely to succeed in the long term than someone with technical know-how alone.
7. Transparent Communication Shortage
If a hiring process appears to be sketchy, evasive, or discontinuous, it’s a warning sign. So is it with applicants who avoid questions or present contradictory responses. Honest and transparent communication establishes trust, and trust forms the cornerstone of great teams. A clear process indicates that both parties appreciate transparency and alignment from the beginning.
6. Inadequate Preparation in Interviews
An interview is a two-way process. When a business arrives unprepared—re-scheduling repeatedly, not preparing an agenda, or not even looking at a resume—it’s a sign of disorganization and disrespect. Similarly, a job candidate who has not prepared or doesn’t ask meaningful questions isn’t demonstrating sincere interest. Both should take the process as a substantial use of time and effort.
5. Gossip and Negative Talk
Talking poorly about current or previous coworkers is one of the brightest red flags you will find. Whether it is coming from a hiring manager or a candidate, it implies toxicity. Healthy workplaces establish a benchmark that negativity and gossip are not acceptable. A green flag, however, is when individuals build others up and talk respectfully—even when discussing previous setbacks.
4. Inconsistent or Inflated Resumes
Resumes that don’t balance, have vague descriptions, or exaggerate accomplishments always raise red flags. Resume padding is all too common, which is why it’s so important to verify skills and check references. Bringing in someone based on assertions that prove not to be the case can cause enormous problems in the long run.
3. Lack of Company Values
The best-skilled person in the room may still ruin a team if they don’t share the company’s values and approach. Mismatch on culture causes friction, reduced engagement, and ultimately turnover. Intelligent hiring involves assessing not just skills but also how the person integrates into the bigger picture. Values alignment ensures easier collaboration and better long-term results.
2. Negative Attitude or Low Motivation
Few things do more harm than a negative attitude all the time. Complaining, fighting change, or lacking motivation can bring down a whole team. A candidate’s enthusiasm and energy are as crucial as their experience. A positive, motivated individual keeps the momentum going, while a disengaged one can silently bring work to a halt.
1. Ignoring Feedback and Allowing Toxicity to Slide
The biggest red flag? When companies ignore feedback and let bad behavior roll. Well-functioning workplaces address problems head-on, take people to task, and have room for employees to talk freely. Ignoring bad behavior from anyone is a quick path to losing good employees. A real green flag is when leadership clearly communicates that bad behavior won’t be acceptable.
Seeing these signs—both positive and negative—can be the difference between creating a strong, lasting team and getting caught in a turnover cycle of frustration. Whether you’re hiring or looking for a job, watch for these cues. They’ll assist you in selecting an environment in which people don’t merely work—but flourish.