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I was offered a job the other day. The game is super cute, the pay was good and they have a successful Patreon. I was close to accept when we started talking about the job itself. There were so many red flags I feel like I have to tell you about them.
#1 
: everyone has to use a time tracking software. This is usually fine by me, but this particular software sends the employer screenshots and a log of the websites you visit. "Listening to music while working is ok, but watching videos not related to the job isn't".
: everyone has to use a time tracking software. This is usually fine by me, but this particular software sends the employer screenshots and a log of the websites you visit. "Listening to music while working is ok, but watching videos not related to the job isn't".
This is horrible. Even if you're fine with screenshots being taken while you work (you shouldn't), this means at some point you'll end up having to explain why a certain task took X amount of time. I had already decided to reject the offer, but kept reading.
#2 : the team uses Discord for communication. If you're tagged in a message, you have to reply within 8 hours, even if you're not working at that time or day. You must have Discord installed in your phone to receive notifications at all times.
: the team uses Discord for communication. If you're tagged in a message, you have to reply within 8 hours, even if you're not working at that time or day. You must have Discord installed in your phone to receive notifications at all times.
I don't even need to explain this one. Working for them means you no longer have time for yourself. You can't take a break from the stress of work.
#3 : you're not expected to be productive for 8 hours a day... only 7.
No one is possibly that productive. No one can code for 7 hours straight without taking a break. Not every day, at least.
: you're not expected to be productive for 8 hours a day... only 7. No one is possibly that productive. No one can code for 7 hours straight without taking a break. Not every day, at least.
Also, if you don't meet the productivity expectations, you're supposed to catch up during the weekends.
#4: if you finish a task faster than expected, you're paid less because you worked less hours. "Finishing faster usually means poorer quality". I promise I'm not lying.
: if you finish a task faster than expected, you're paid less because you worked less hours. "Finishing faster usually means poorer quality". I promise I'm not lying.
#5: this one will sound silly compared to the other 4, but of course you're not paid for the "interview task". They take pride in paying for the 1-3 months "internship" period because "your time is worth it".
: this one will sound silly compared to the other 4, but of course you're not paid for the "interview task". They take pride in paying for the 1-3 months "internship" period because "your time is worth it".
This got some attention, so here's some advice for freelancers. Most employers will at some point not believe a certain task took X amount of time. Avoid them. Try to spot the red flags before you take the job or you'll end up stressing out every time you send an invoice forever.
