You can be forced to do just about anything, whether you're qualified to do it or not.
12. "Rotating on-call."
We own your a$$ 24x7x365. And when you're "off the clock," you still have to behave as if you weren't.
13. "Matrixed organization."
You'll have a dozen bosses, none of whom have a clue about what you do. But they'll all tell you what to do.
I had a wannabe boss and the token super above him that became such control freaks. It was normal to be asked what I had for breakfast, what TV shows did I watch, where did I go on weekends, and endless variations. I told them nothing as a rule or would make up something outrageous.
All true
1. We can’t pay you more.
This may be true. You can be paid what the market will bear and probably no more. If you are exceptional you probably can’t be paid what you are worth.
2. Your raise is above average.
Probably a lie
3. We’re one big happy family
On par with be happy in your work. Forget it. It’s business.
4. There’s no truth in the layoff rumor.
Biggest lie here. Where there is smoke there is fire. If you hear it and feel it it is true. Plan on it and plan on it hitting you.
5. My hands are tied.
Sometimes but usually a cop out. The truth would be better.
6. You’ll be working forty hours a week.
If you’re salaried you’ll probably never work 40 hours per week and figure on the balance of overtime being against you. Eventually you may be paid for your knowledge and not the time you put in but probably not unless you become so valuable you can invoke this. Probably never.
7. Your response will be confidential.
When two know a secret it isn’t a secret anymore.
8. Your participation is voluntary.
But not participating will eventually be held against you. Probably when it matters the most.