#advice

One thing for sure: askin AI beautifying PPT deck >> socializing with their BEST FRIENDS

Story by James Stephens

The following are among the most common lies hiring managers tell, helping you spot red flags and ask the right questions during your job search. By recognizing these patterns, you can navigate the hiring process with confidence and avoid falling for empty promises. Let’s dive in and expose the truth behind these common hiring myths!

"There’s plenty of room for growth."
This phrase sounds promising, but it’s often as vague as a fortune cookie. “Growth” might mean taking on more responsibilities without a promotion or pay raise. Companies love to dangle this carrot, but without specifics, it’s hard to know if you’ll actually climb the ladder—or just stay on the first rung.

Ask for examples of employees who’ve advanced within the company. If they can’t name anyone, the only thing growing might be your workload. A clear career path beats vague promises, so dig deeper to find out if “growth” means opportunity or just a clever sales pitch.

"We’ll get back to you soon."
This line is the professional equivalent of “I’ll text you later.” It sounds polite, but it often leads to ghosting or weeks of radio silence. Companies use this phrase to buy time or avoid giving immediate feedback, leaving candidates in limbo.

If you don’t hear back, follow up with a polite email. But don’t wait forever—treat this as a red flag. If they’re this unresponsive during the hiring process, imagine how they’ll handle communication once you’re on the team. Sometimes, “soon” really means “never,” so keep your options open.

"We have a great company culture."
“Great company culture” often translates to free snacks and a ping-pong table, while ignoring toxic managers or high turnover. It’s a buzzword companies use to sound appealing, but it rarely tells the full story.

Ask about team dynamics, conflict resolution, or how they support employees during tough times. If they dodge the question or only mention surface-level perks, the “great culture” might be more of a marketing ploy. Remember, a truly great culture goes beyond happy hours and beanbag chairs—it’s about how employees are treated every day.

"Your resume will be kept on file."
This phrase is the hiring world’s version of “It’s not you, it’s me.” It sounds hopeful, but in reality, your resume will likely gather digital dust in a forgotten folder. Companies rarely revisit old resumes unless a role perfectly matches your profile.

If you’re genuinely interested in future opportunities, don’t rely on this promise. Stay proactive by setting up job alerts, following the company on LinkedIn, and reapplying when relevant roles open up. “Kept on file” might sound nice, but it’s no substitute for staying visible and engaged.

"The role’s responsibilities are flexible."
“Flexible” often means “we’ll expect you to do everything.” This phrase can mislead candidates into thinking they’ll have autonomy, but the reality might involve rigid expectations and a never-ending to-do list.

Ask for specific examples of how flexibility applies to the role. If they can’t provide clear answers, prepare for a job that stretches you in all the wrong ways. Flexibility should empower you, not overwhelm you, so make sure the role aligns with your skills and career goals before signing on.

"We offer competitive salaries."
“Competitive” with what? Minimum wage? Without specifics, this phrase often means salaries are average—or even below market rates. Companies use it to sound appealing while avoiding actual numbers.

Research industry benchmarks and ask for a salary range during the interview. If they hesitate or dodge the question, it’s a sign they might not be offering what you’re worth. Remember, a truly competitive salary doesn’t need vague marketing—it speaks for itself. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

"We prioritize work-life balance."
This phrase often hides a reality of long hours and constant availability. Companies love to claim they support work-life balance, but the truth might involve late-night emails and weekend deadlines.

Ask about specific policies, like flexible hours or remote work options. If they can’t provide concrete examples, their version of “balance” might just mean you’re balancing work on your back. Look for signs that they respect personal time, like clear boundaries and a culture that values rest as much as productivity.

"We’re financially stable."
When companies emphasize financial stability, it can sometimes mean they’re trying to distract you from layoffs or budget cuts. This phrase sounds reassuring, but it’s worth digging deeper to confirm.

Research the company’s financial health through public records, news articles, or employee reviews. If they’re truly stable, they’ll have no problem being transparent about their finances. On the other hand, if they’re vague or defensive, it might be time to reconsider. Stability should be a given, not a sales pitch.

"You’ll have access to professional development."
“Access” doesn’t always mean “opportunity.” Companies often promise training and growth, but the reality may involve little more than a dusty bookshelf of outdated manuals.

Ask for examples of past training programs or budgets allocated for professional development. If they can’t provide specifics, their commitment to your growth might be more talk than action. True professional development requires investment, so make sure the company is willing to back up their promises with real resources.

"We’re like a family here."
“We’re like a family” often translates to blurred boundaries and overwork. While it sounds warm and inviting, it can mean you’re expected to prioritize work over your personal life.

Look for signs of healthy boundaries, like clear work hours and respect for time off. A “family” culture can sometimes lead to burnout if not managed properly. Remember, you’re looking for a job, not an adoption. A professional environment with mutual respect beats a dysfunctional “family” any day.

"We value employee feedback."
Companies love to say they value feedback, but in practice, it often goes straight into the void. This phrase can serve as a way to appear open-minded without actually implementing changes.

Ask for examples of how employee feedback has led to improvements. If they can’t name any, their commitment to listening might be more about appearances than action. Feedback should lead to growth, not just a checkbox on a survey.

"The hiring budget is flexible."
“Flexible” often means “we’ll lowball you and hope you don’t notice.” Companies use this phrase to sound accommodating, but it’s often a tactic to keep salaries as low as possible.

Come prepared with market data and your salary expectations. If they push back or hesitate to meet your worth, their “flexibility” might only work in their favor. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for what you deserve.

"We’re open to remote work."
“Open to remote work” can quickly turn into “we need you in the office.” Some companies use this line to attract candidates, only to later push for in-person attendance.

Clarify their remote work policy and ask about long-term expectations. If they start talking about “team synergy” or “office culture,” prepare for a commute. Transparency upfront saves you from future frustration.

"We discourage talking to current employees."
This phrase screams red flag. If a company discourages you from speaking with staff, they’re likely hiding something—like unhappy employees or a toxic work environment.

Push back politely and ask why they discourage these conversations. A company confident in its culture should welcome transparency, not avoid it. If they’re cagey, it’s worth reconsidering the opportunity.

"We’re committed to diversity and inclusion."
“Committed” doesn’t always mean “active.” Many companies talk about diversity and inclusion but fail to back it up with meaningful action.

Ask about specific initiatives, employee resource groups, or metrics that track progress. If their answers feel rehearsed or vague, their “commitment” might be more about appearances than real change. True diversity requires effort, not just a tagline.

Everyone keeps telling me LinkedIn is the way to go but I have gotten absolutely nowhere with it. The idea of messaging random strangers just to network makes me want to give up entirely. Has anyone actually landed something decent from that site?

How much have things changed in that time? Any tips?

How can I get in the gravy train?

Since raises have not appeared for multiple years I am adjusting my hours to give myself an hourly rate increase while I continue to look for a new job. I recommend you do the same.

Just copied from another post here and posting here.. What's your opinion ? upvote or down vote ?

A lot of people stay in jobs they don’t enjoy because they’re financially tied to them, even if they dislike what they do every day.

Two more days and I have not had the best luck scoring interviews. What are some suggestions other than LinkedIn to search for jobs?

Down 25% this month
Next few quarterly results will have so much spin I recommend Dramamine before partaking of the party.
Big Short

No Matter How Good You Are. If you are in a wrong place, you become truly worthless. Take it easy and move on. World is Big and You will win soon.
All the Best

500 call or 400 puts? =D

Any tips on making our daily commute to Tuas more pleasant? I don’t know what to expect

Most of you are doing it wrong.No need to do your work. Just join all the LinkedIn activities and get your picture taken. Always the same people there and they never get cut.

One more time-no need to do work. Just join all the useless events

I’ve been asked to interview for a role in Europe, anybody have insight?

Question for anyone that was recently laid off. The Severance agreement states that we will be automatically enrolled in our current health benefit plans on September 1st but I also received a letter stating that I need to select a COBRA plan by November 1st? I tried calling but got someone that didn't seem to know what they were talking about and just advised me to login and pick a plan. I have been on a grandfathered health plan for years and don't want to mess anything up. Any advice out there?

I think it’s about time to employ these “small” business losers and run it like a real insurance company

Question for anyone that was recently laid off. The Severance agreement states that we will be automatically enrolled in our current health benefit plans on September 1st but I also received a letter stating that I need to select a COBRA plan by November 1st? I tried calling but got someone that didn't seem to know what they were talking about and just advised me to login and pick a plan. I have been on a grandfathered health plan for years and don't want to mess anything up. Any advice out there?

Source: M. Gray

1. Learn Storytelling

Storytelling is the highest intangible ROI skill you can learn

Sales, hiring, marketing, it's all storytelling.

Start with basic storytelling frameworks (e.g. the Hero's Journey) and the 7 fundamental emotions.

And watch how listeners turn into believers.

1. Rethink Health

Everything changed for me when I came across Symbiotic Success:

Your health directly affects achievement, even if you can't see it.

Now I prioritize meditation, lifting weights and nutrition.

Success is a game of longevity and health is your competitive moat.

1. Work Like a Lion

Society has conditioned us to work like we're cows grazing.

Low focus.
Long hours.
Minimal output.

Instead, work less, but work like a hunting lion.

Sprint. Rest. Repeat.

1. Find Your Peak Energy State

Optimal hours, environment, and work style differ for everyone.

Keep experimenting until you find your most productive state, when you don't have to fight yourself to get stuff done.

Once you find it, energy flows where your focus will be.

1. Learn to Communicate Concisely

Most people's emails and messages are full of fluff:

'Hope you're well!'
'I just wanted to ask...'
'Could we circle back on...'

Stop.

Be concise and get to the point, your value increases with the effort your readers save.

1. Be Happy for Other People's Successes

It's a positive-sum world out there; there are 22 million millionaires in the US alone.

Recognize that one person's success isn't your failure and offer genuine congratulations.

Joy for others manifests future accolades for you.

1. Be Boring

A lot of success comes from just saying no to cheap dopamine.

And instead, focusing on the mundane:

• Maximizing sleep
• Guarding time for workouts
• Not eating out in favor of your nutritious diet

Boring's the secret the successful don’t want you to know.

WTF? Can anybody post your state, the job titles and areas? TIA for any useful info.

I recently finished a second round interview, but I'm also aware of the ongoing layoffs and such. Thoughts?

Every time I go to the BTC I get sick. What am I doing wrong? Are there certain foods I need to avoid?

Genuine question: I joined within the last year and recently interacted with a DE, but honestly didn’t understand much of what they were saying. Do DEs typically write code and have a good understanding of the systems they work with?

Can someone please explain to me the Horizon Challenge? Is this a new concept or a fancy name for an old problem? Thanks for any insights.

Maybe not such a bad person at heart after all….

Forget engineering and join legal. It's dynamic and creative, they are busy but well compensated. Cisco has developed this competency like no other company and this tells you a lot about the direction of the company - extract and protect is the mantra nowadays. Lawyers are not better than engineers, but here at Cisco they can thrive just because that's the game nowadays.

These are growing in number, so I just thought to warn other people who're as desperate to leave as I am. Be careful of recruiters reaching out on LinkedIn, and if a job looks too good, it probably is. Check the name, the phone number, and the company. Sadly, times like these attract many predators.

After successfully passing my PIP and last meeting with my manager yesterday. Today IBM sent me a termination letter. No severance. Nothing. Just take your stuff and bye.
My advice your you guys. Do not trust any manager at IBM.

Curious to what people have done to successfully find employment elsewhere. Does LinkedIn really work? I see a lot of job postings on there, but also lots of applicants. Are recruiter/head hunters still the best route? What has worked and what hasn't. Thanks in advance and hope for helpful responses.

If there are rumors that layoffs may happen on September 2nd, they may happen that day, but the timing could also be different, such as August 31st or September 1st. We saw a similar situation last year. Unfortunately, there are some things we simply cannot control.

If you’re concerned about your position, make sure your work and contributions are visible. Touch base with your VP, communicate what you’ve been working on, share your accomplishments, discuss any concerns, and ask where you can take on additional work. During a restructuring, decisions can be difficult and sometimes are outside your manager’s control, so make sure your contributions are known at the leadership level.

If you suddenly receive a 1:1 meeting invitation or an early morning email, try not to panic. Take a breath and focus on the practical steps. If you are affected, understand your WARN period, severance, benefits, and healthcare options. If applicable, plan ahead for Covered California coverage when your employer coverage ends. Verify the exact dates and benefits with HR before making any decisions.

Most importantly, don’t let the uncertainty consume you or affect your family. Keep your routine: log in and do your work, continue applying for jobs with an updated resume, learn something new, exercise or take a walk, spend time with your family, have dinner, and watch a movie. Keeping a normal routine can help you stay grounded.

Blaming your manager, director, or Oracle may feel natural, but it won’t change the outcome and will only drain your energy. If a layoff happens, focus on what you can control: understand your severance and benefits, arrange healthcare coverage, update your resume, build new skills, take courses, network, and start interviewing.

You will find another opportunity. It may take some time, but keep moving forward. And if you genuinely want to return to Oracle someday, that option may still be there.

There are things we cannot control. Organizational decisions don’t define our value or our careers. A layoff is an event, not a reflection of your worth or abilities.

Take care of yourself, protect your mental health, and take it one day at a time. You’ll get through this. ❤️

Dear Shell employees, please l will like to get some advice from current and former Shell employees. Shell has been my dream company to work for and l am thinking of pursuing a career with Shell. Please any advice whether it’s a good choice based on the constant layoffs l have been hearing from this site?

What would happen if we all send an email to directly Arvind requesting more salary instead of RAs?

Could we get fired immediately?

AEP (Annual Enrollment Program) is only approximately 5 weeks away.

So, to all my social media persons, start now convincing folks that Traditional Medicare is a much better option, especially if they have some catastrophic event and don’t want to have their expensively health claims denied.

This AEP, let’s destroy this corrupt corporation’s membership growth.

Some of the replies here really make me feel uneasy. If I hated a place as much as some of you do AEP, I'd be long gone. Life is too short to stay somewhere that's making you so miserable. You know that's an option, right? Walk away and find something where you'll be happier. It's that simple.

Don't fall for that VIP trip to wherever they want to send you ...I almost did🧐

There are two types of leaders. The confident ones hire the best minds around them, people who'll challenge them and give honest advice. The insecure ones hire yes-men. The second kind is running this company straight into the ground, and they're getting rich doing it.

Hard work and skill won't get you ahead. Flatter your boss and trash-talk the competition. That's the winning combination.

Don't expect the company to care. It never will.

Please start preparing yourselves. It will not be small and it will not be pretty. Plus, with the job market being what it is, you need to start looking sooner rather than later to have any chance of landing something. Just a few words of advice from an old-timer who's been through an acquisition or two and knows how it goes.

I haven't discussed this with my manager yet so would be grateful for input or info anyone has on policy. Here's my situation:

• I work East Coast hours from West Coast (CA)
• I have worked 6am (and sometimes 5am) to 8am from home, then train into the office (I don't own a car...takes about 40 minutes each way).
• I do not work with anyone else in my office...I spend my day on Teams meetings or doing my work.
• I go home at 2pm or 3pm, depending when I started in the morning.

Am I now supposed to haul my bu†† downtown at 4:15am to get my 8 hours in the office? The trains don't even run then! I'm not buying a car just to satisfy this. Honestly, the absurdity of all this is what bothers me the most.

Right now, I'm planning to my boss that he's going to lose access to my work and contacting me until 9am Pacific time. Many of my team and project-related calls fall before that time, so they can either allow me to continue working the way I do or lose my participation in various routines, ability to answer questions and fix stuff...I'm stumped.