Hiring isn’t just about filling a seat—it’s about protecting your culture, your customers, and your community. Whether you’re building a team at your local bakery or scaling a small-town startup, spotting red flags early can save you time, money, and a whole lot of heartache.

Here’s what national recruiters are trained to catch—and what you, as a small business owner, should never overlook:

1. Vague or Evasive Answers

If a candidate can’t clearly explain what they did in past roles or why they left, it’s not just awkward—it’s a warning. Transparency matters. You want someone who owns their story, not someone who dodges it.

2. Résumé Inconsistencies

Gaps in employment, overlapping dates, or job titles that don’t match their LinkedIn profile? Recruiters dig deeper—and so should you. If the paper trail doesn’t add up, ask why.

3. Overuse of Buzzwords

“Team player.” “Results-driven.” “Go-getter.” Sound familiar? Without real examples, these phrases are just fluff. Look for candidates who can show—not just tell—how they’ve made an impact.

4. Negative Talk About Past Employers

If they’re throwing shade at their old boss, guess who’s next? A candidate who badmouths others may bring drama, not solutions. Emotional intelligence starts with respect.

5. Lack of Preparation

Did they research your business? Know your values? Understand your community? If not, they’re not invested. Passion beats polish every time—especially in small-town hiring.

6. Typos and Sloppy Formatting

A résumé full of errors isn’t just unprofessional—it’s a sign of how they’ll treat your brand. Attention to detail matters, whether they’re writing emails or labeling jars of homemade jam.

7. Poor Body Language

Avoiding eye contact, slouching, or fidgeting during interviews can signal discomfort or dishonesty. You don’t need a psychology degree—just trust your gut.

8. Dodging Skills Tests

If they’re hesitant to show what they can do—whether it’s writing a sample post or solving a quick problem—it might mean they can’t. Confidence is quiet; competence is proven.

9. Inconsistent Online Presence

Does their LinkedIn match their résumé? Are they posting questionable content? Recruiters check—and so should you. Your team represents your brand, online and off.

10. No Questions Asked

When a candidate doesn’t ask you anything, it’s a red flag. Curiosity shows engagement. You want someone who’s excited to be part of your mission—not just collecting a paycheck.

Hire for Heart, Train for Skill

In small towns, your team isn’t just staff—they’re ambassadors of your values. National recruiters may have fancy tools, but your superpower is knowing your community. Trust your instincts, ask the hard questions, and never settle for “good enough.”