Job Interviewing For Dummies

Chapter 18

Ten Red Flags You’re Interviewing at a Toxic Workplace

IN THIS CHAPTER

Identifying signs of dysfunctional teams

Avoiding toxic managers

Spotting inappropriate behaviors

Deciphering the code used to hide the truth about nightmare workplaces

I share a lot of tips in this book on how to avoid raising red flags with hiring managers. Now let’s discuss how you can spot red flags on the other side of the interview.

It’s important to look for clues about what it would be like to actually work for an organization from day to day. If you pay attention, you’ll notice positive indicators when you’re interviewing at a great place to work. You will also see clues when an organization is dysfunctional or even toxic.

There are a lot of toxic workplaces out there. Working in a toxic environment (and working for toxic people) long-term can cause true psychological damage — leading to burnout, self-doubt, anxiety, and even depression.

So, how do you know when to run screaming from a job offer? It’s not always obvious. Part of the challenge is that you always want to believe in the dream. ...