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This guide is for agencies and interviewers conducting early-stage screening. Red flags don't automatically disqualify a candidate — they're signals to explore. Where noted, always ask before drawing conclusions. If a red flag is confirmed, include it in your notes in Ashby.

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<aside> 🚩 Lack of enthusiasm and passion for the role, company and product

Someone who didn’t prepare for the interview and doesn’t ask any questions

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A lack of energy or excitement shows disinterest in the company and role, which are critical for success in our fast-paced, innovative environment. Candidates who don’t prepare for interviews or fail to ask questions signal a lack of engagement.

⚠️ Explore: What excites them about this role? Did they research the company? What questions do they have for us?

<aside> 🚩 A series of short tenure experiences

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Multiple experiences of less than 1.5-2 years may suggest instability or difficulty in long-term commitment. However, given the global layoffs, it's important to ask and understand the reasons behind these short tenures. Make sure to explore whether external factors, such as layoffs, influenced their job changes before making assumptions.

✅ Be fair: Given global layoffs and market shifts, always ask directly: What led to each move? Were exits voluntary, performance-related, or market-driven?

<aside> 🚩 Inability to admit to and learn from past mistakes and failures

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Candidates who are unable to acknowledge their failures, or who demonstrate a fear of taking risks, may hinder their personal development and the overall progress of the company.

⚠️ Ask: Tell me about a decision that didn’t work out - what did you learn? What would you do differently?

<aside> 🚩 Fear of challenges, not able to work in fast paced environment

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It’s important for us to have team members who thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and can adapt quickly to change.

⚠️ Watch for: Excessive need for structure, fear of ownership, or avoidance of fast-moving roles.

<aside> 🚩 Discomfort with NSFW content

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Discomfort with this type of content would be a significant red flag, as it indicates a mismatch with the company's values and product focus.