A viral Reddit post this week struck a nerve with thousands of early-career professionals. The story begins with a routine HR call, except nothing about the call felt routine. The HR executive didn’t introduce herself, didn’t name the company, and jumped straight into rapid-fire questions: “Are you looking for a job?” … “Where do you live?” … “Introduce yourself.”
Every time the candidate tried to answer, she cut him off. Add to that the loud chaos in the background, described by the poster as sounding like a “fish market”, and the call was already on shaky ground. So the candidate did what any sensible jobseeker should: asked basic questions. “What’s the company name?” “Where is it located?” “What’s the budget for the role?”
Instead of answers, he got another interruption: “Can you come for an onsite interview?”Finally, when he asked the most reasonable question — “May I know the company’s rating on AmbitionBox or Glassdoor?” — the HR went silent, asked “sorry??”, and then disconnected the call altogether.The internet laughed, sympathised, and collectively agreed: either the company’s reviews were terrible, or the call itself was never legitimate.But beneath the humour is an important reminder for young jobseekers stepping into the workplace for the first time: you are allowed to ask questions — and you should.
Why young professionals often get taken for granted
Many first-time jobseekers assume that any opportunity is a good opportunity. Companies — especially those with high attrition, vague business models, or aggressive targets — know this.And that’s where the power imbalance creeps in.Common patterns include:
- Lack of basic transparency: Not sharing the company name, the job description, or salary details upfront.
- Overly rushed interactions: Calls that feel more like interrogation than a screening.
- Unprofessional behaviour: Background noise, abrupt tone, constant interruptions.
- Pressure tactics: Lines like “If you’re serious, you won’t ask so many questions,” directed mostly at freshers who are reluctant to push back.
Because young candidates are eager to secure their first job, they often tolerate behaviour they shouldn’t. Over time, this normalises poor hiring standards—and reduces trust in the job market as a whole.
How to avoid falling for suspicious hiring practices
The first interview call is usually the clearest indicator of how an organisation operates. Here’s how young professionals can protect themselves without sounding confrontational:
1. Expect (and demand) basic professionalism
A legitimate recruiter will introduce themselves, explain the role, and clearly name the company. If they don’t, pause and ask. You’re not being rude — you’re being responsible.
2. Verify the company before investing time
Questions like these are completely valid:
- “Where is the office located?”
- “What’s the compensation range?”
- “Where can I check your company’s reviews?”
If the HR gets defensive, that itself is a review.
3. Pay attention to tone and surroundings
Recruiters are representatives of the organisation. If the call feels rushed, noisy, impatient or chaotic, it often reflects deeper issues in the company’s culture.
4. Do your background research
Before attending any interview — especially offline — check:
- Glassdoor
- AmbitionBox
- LinkedIn company page
- Google reviews (for consultancies)
A legitimate company leaves a digital footprint. A suspicious one avoids it.
5. Take your discomfort seriously
If something feels off, it probably is. Early-career professionals often ignore red flags because they fear “losing the opportunity.” But the wrong opportunity can cost far more — your time, energy, and confidence.
The bottom line
The viral Reddit post went mainstream because it was relatable. Young professionals across India recognised the same pattern: unclear calls, evasive answers, and pressure to commit before knowing anything about the employer.Today’s job market demands skill, but it also demands street-smarts.A company that values you will answer your questions, respect your time, and communicate clearly. A company that doesn’t is not worth the anxiety.Your first job is important. Your safety, dignity, and clarity are even more important.