The hiring manager has one thing in mind when using these phrases, but you might want to dig deeper and make sure they’re not a sign of some disfunction.
“We want a rock star.”
Are you going to pay them like a rock star?
“We’re looking for someone who can wear many hats.”
So you’ll be paying one person to fill multiple positions?
“We’re like a family here.”
Does this mean you’re expecting unpaid overtime or emotional labor without boundaries?
“We need someone who’s a self-starter.”
Will there be clear guidance and resources, or are you leaving them to figure everything out on their own?
“We want someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment.”
Is this code for an unmanageable workload and constant chaos?
“We need you to be 110% committed.”
Are you compensating them for the extra 10% of effort, or is work-life balance a non-priority?
“We want someone who can ‘own’ this project.”
Are you giving them authority along with the responsibility, or is this just a way to avoid accountability from leadership?
“You need to hit the ground running.”
No on-boarding? No training?