Inadequate training structure and documentation
- Heavy reliance on single employee for knowledge transfer
No written documentation for role responsibilities
- Resistance to questions from other departments
Poor communication and conflicting expectations
- Disconnect between manager's requirements and predecessor's guidance
- Unclear success metrics and performance standards
- Mixed messages about asking questions vs. immediate responses
Unrealistic workload
- One person expected to handle three distinct roles
- Regular 50-hour weeks required without overtime compensation
- Limited work-life balance despite advertised flexibility
Challenging work environment
- Limited inclusion in necessary meetings
- Feedback collected and presented without context
- "Zero tolerance for error" policy at senior level
- Abrupt termination process (4-minute meeting)
Questions Prospective Employees Should Ask
Training and Onboarding
- What is the structured training process for this role?
- Are there documented SOPs and role guidelines?
- How long is the knowledge transfer period with the departing employee?
- What specific resources will be available during onboarding?
- Unlimited PTO that no one seems to take
Role Expectations
- What are the specific deliverables for the first 30/60/90 days?
- How is success measured in this role?
- What is the expected learning curve for new systems/processes?
- How is work prioritized during system migrations or major changes?
Support and Communication
- How is support provided for team members in different time zones?
- Who are the key stakeholders and subject matter experts?
- What is the process for escalating issues or seeking clarification?
- How often are team meetings and 1:1s with management?
Growth and Development
- What is the feedback process (frequency, format, documentation)?
- What are the opportunities for skill development?
- How are salary reviews and promotions handled?
- What does career progression look like in this team?
Work-Life Balance
- How is overtime tracked and compensated?
- What is the actual PTO utilization rate?
- How are local labor laws incorporated into work policies?
- What are the expectations for availability across time zones?
