5 early warning signs you've been hired by a toxic boss

Contents

1. Lack of empathy 2. They’re controlled by pursuit of self-interest 3. They leverage power dynamics 4. They belittle and demoralise 5. They overestimate their knowledge

We hardly know we’re employed by a toxic boss who has manipulated us into cowardice until we’re out of such employment.

In my years of experience as a life coach, I’ve heard enough stories to know how damaging working with a toxic boss can be.

Thus, I’ve taken it upon myself to help open the eyes of as many people as I can to the predicament they probably don’t know they’re passing through.

Here are the early warning signs that show a toxic boss employs you. Pick up your bags and run away if you begin to notice any of these signs.

1. Lack of empathy

Toxic bosses often have this characteristic. They never want to invest time or energy into seeing or understanding how their actions impact others around them. They also struggle to share others’ feelings, thus constantly struggling to relate to the challenges or perspectives of other team members.

2. They’re controlled by pursuit of self-interest

It’s often not hard to identify toxic bosses when you look at their motivation for doing anything. They make everything about themselves, taking the glory for even tasks they didn’t contribute to. This attitude makes them prioritise risky, attention-grabbing moves that will make them shine over decisions that benefit the organisation in the long run.

3. They leverage power dynamics

There’s nothing wrong with being a boss. In fact, it’s every employee’s dream to work their way up the organisational hierarchy. However, a problem arises when a boss chooses to weaponize their authority in such a way that they force subordinates to do their bidding without questioning the value of the task being taken.

4. They belittle and demoralise

This one is pretty clear—if a boss constantly jokes at the expense of your self-esteem, run for your life. It’s their stealthy way of bringing you under control. They’ll constantly belittle you with their words until you feel less about yourself and are subjected to them.

5. They overestimate their knowledge

Toxic bosses always believe themselves to be better than everyone else on the job. Thus, they hardly give room for feedback or correction. If a boss constantly belittles your idea, making you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing, they’re toxic.

Remember, the longer you stay in such organisations, the harder it’ll become to recognize their toxicity. So, the earlier you start looking out for signs, the better. Run now, while you still can, to avoid becoming like my acquaintance, Grace.

5 early warning signs you’ve been hired by a toxic boss