“We are looking for someone who goes above and beyond” or “willing to go the extra mile” sounds like the employer values dedication. In reality, it often signals that the standard workload is already demanding, and exceeding it is the expected norm rather than the exception.
What this really means
In healthy workplaces, going above and beyond is occasionally recognised and rewarded — it is the exception rather than the rule. But when an advert explicitly asks for it, the employer may be telling you that the job requires more effort than the role and salary suggest. It becomes the baseline, not a bonus.
How to evaluate it
Look at the rest of the advert for context. If the salary is generous, the team is well-resourced, and the role is clearly defined, “above and beyond” might genuinely mean they appreciate initiative. If the salary is low, the role is vague, and the team is small, it likely means overwork is expected.
Questions to ask
- Can you give an example of someone going above and beyond in this role?
- How are extra contributions recognised or rewarded?
- What are the standard working hours, and how often do people exceed them?
