With millions of Americans looking for a new job after COVID-19, be aware of potential red flags when applying for a new role.

We can all agree that this is a difficult time for all industries, and finding a job is going to feel like an uphill battle. Many companies want to hire but can't due to freezes, some have hit "pause" on operations and some businesses have closed their doors completely. Since there's such a high demand for jobs, there's no shortage of unsavory businesses or shady employers looking to take advantage of you in your time of need.

If you're feeling the unemployment pinch and are desperate for a new job or you're a new graduate eager to start your career, be on the lookout for these red flags and always remember that no job is worth your sanity or overall well-being.

1. High turnover rates.

If a company isn't fostering growth and upward mobility for its employees, this is not the place you need to be.

2. The job asks for advanced experience but pays at entry-level.

Good luck with negotiating your salary.

3. Inappropriate behavior during the interview process.

Insults, rude comments, flirting, or any other tasteless behavior that takes place in an interview should give you a clear indication of the company's culture and what is permissible. 

4. The job requires an upfront cost.

It's a pyramid scheme. Run.

5. The company makes the news—and not in a good way.

Scandals, mergers, acquisitions, layoffs, and other teeth-gritting headlines are nothing you want to be associated with.

6. Bad online reviews.

Sites like Glassdoor provide insider information into what it's like to work at a particular company. These details may offer insight into what's not being advertised in a job description.

7. You get a bad gut feeling. 

Never, ever, ever ignore your gut feeling about an employer. If something doesn't feel right, there's probably a good reason for that.

Do you have any job-hunting tips? Let us know in the comments!