More specific advice: you might try reading the Ask a Manager blog. She has a wealth of advice about what is appropriate at work, what employees and employees should expect from each other, how to recognize poor and good boundaries at work, etc. Between that and applicable life experience, you can get at least a basic idea of red flags and green flags to be aware of when interviewing
You raise an important point. It's genuinely concerning to see the state of the job market today. It’s hard to fathom that even individuals with degrees are struggling to secure part-time positions. It’s a tough situation for so many, and my heart goes out to everyone facing these challenges.