After getting released from a toxic project, how to check the red flags beforehand, want recommendations from the long timers in TCS please.

I am with this org with 7+ years. There is literally NO WAY you can be certain from outside.

I have seen freshers onboarded into project with the promise of AI/ML/Data Science then finally they realised it was just an manual Excel work.. 🙃

However if they don't conduct any interview or have an easy basic interview then it is sure trap & they probably aren't getting profiles to onboard. They are in HURRY.

If they have client interview then atleast you are in good place where client are aware of technical things.

Ask clarity on roles and responsibilities in written. CLIENT NAME, location , visit required ,.

New project or replacement of old associates.

Reporting metrics , Team size.

These questions try if you can get answers

Never let them tag /give allocation to you in a hurry.
Ask them that you need some time before they give allocation.
And say this I’m not giving my consent over a phone call, I’ll write a mail.
They will say that you are selected for this project and say no to others. Do not obey this. Keep yourself open until you are satisfied.
Ask questions like
What is client name? Do not sign up for the internal project that will make you toooooooo much comfortable and lazy.
What will be the role, technology, what are they developing, etc. as a python developer are they hiring for QA these should be the questions. More questions on the actual work whether they follow sprint or not etc.
Timings if US then it will be late nights every day.

Last but not the least
Be prepared and keep learning for the anytime exit from TCS. If you get stuck in a project which you don’t like. It’s really hard to get a release. Issues like Hike, promotion just forget it that anyone will listen. It will be always delayed.

Ps. Currently Serving NP. Total yoe 4 yrs. Worked in internal as well as US client project. Interviewed with at least 30+ accounts in last 4 years.

The long timers are probably the contibutors to the toxicity . They lack strength and the only way to cover it up is by being toxic. First hand experience. No assumptions. There will be exceptions everywhere.

Ask for JD from the recruiter/manager. It will give you full insight into the requirement. Technology, Location, Onsite, everything. It should carry the requirement number. If they don't provide you the document it is fake requirement.

You are already in a red zone (TCS). And in the red zone, almost everything is dangerous.
The group clients like Tata Motors, Tata Steel, Tata Play etc. are safe bets.

If the interview is too easy.. it's a red flag

Same situation

Sometimes it's the people you are working with, the management of the project also should be taken into consideration in addition to technology and skills required in the project.

Would really appreciate if people share their reviews