GEORGE TOWN: Landing a job offer may feel like a victory, but career influencer AuntyHR warns that failing to scrutinise the employment contract could lead to costly mistakes later.
Speaking at the myStarjob Fair 2026 here yesterday, she urged job seekers not to let excitement cloud their judgment and highlighted five warning signs to watch out for before signing on the dotted line.
Using the acronym “SIGNS”, AuntyHR outlined common contract clauses that could create problems for employees down the road.
The first letter, “S”, stands for Separation, referring to termination notice periods.
“If the notice period is more than three months, consider negotiating it,” she said during a session titled “Red Flags in Employment Contracts” alongside E2 Workforce Consulting Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Victor Gan.
“I” stands for Imbalance, where contract terms disproportionately favour employers over employees.
AuntyHR, whose real name is Ku Sim Ling, cited examples where employers could terminate staff with just 24 hours’ notice while employees were required to serve three months’ notice if they resigned.
The letter “G” refers to “golden handcuffs”, or employment bonds.
While companies may wish to protect their investment in staff training, she said employees should understand exactly what they are committing to and whether the bond amount is reasonable.
“N” stands for Numbers, covering salary, allowances, leave entitlement, bonuses, working hours, insurance coverage and commissions.
The final “S” refers to Suspicious clauses, including provisions allowing employers to alter salaries, vague job descriptions and restrictive non-compete agreements.
AuntyHR advised job seekers to read contracts carefully, ask questions and seek clarification before signing.
Gan said candidates should pay close attention to clauses involving termination, notice periods and overall fairness.
At another session, Hong Leong Bank branch manager Ooi Wei Jun shared his career journey from senior executive to branch manager over 13 years.
He said the bank provided training, mentorship and a structured pathway for employees to advance into higher positions.
Hong Leong Bank head of business channels Lee Ee Hui said job seekers should look beyond salary and consider career development opportunities when evaluating potential employers.
The two-day event featured more than 20 exhibitors across 30 booths, offering opportunities in a wide range of industries.
Eighteen visitors walked away with prizes in two lucky draw sessions, including tablets, smartwatches, e-wallet vouchers, coffee machines and other electronic devices.
The next myStarjob Fair 2026 will be held at Mid Valley Exhibition Centre Southkey in Johor Baru on July 25 and 26.
