4 Red Flags To Look Out For in Any Toxic Employer

No one intentionally seeks out “bad egg” employers when job hunting – odds are we fall into a less-than-favorable situation and end up seeing a boss’s true colors a little too late. Which leads to feeling stuck with a toxic work environment and boss, and more often than not, until we’re able to pivot to another position or better circumstances.

So how can you tell for sure if you have a toxic boss or employer? After all, you may tell yourself that you’re being picky, overly judgmental, or downplay the warning signals altogether with the excuse that there are always worse jobs out there.

The not-obvious answer is to know what you’re worth, how an employer should recognize the value you bring, and when it’s time to walk away and give your time and effort to a company that rightfully deserves it. But that’s easier said than done, right?

Watch out for 4 of the biggest telltale signs of a toxic work situation below and learn how to combat any self-doubt or insecurities that might deter you from getting out of an unhealthy situation and fighting for what’s best for your personal and professional well-being.

1. They Make You Out to Be the Bad Guy

It’s only natural to desire approval from others, and when at work it makes that much more sense because it’s literally part of the job description – meet the expectations set by others, whether it be performing assigned tasks or reaching certain goals; that constitutes a job well done.

Being in a position that requires you to answer to someone with more authority and influence can also make you more vulnerable to manipulative ideas and dictation. What a superior says, by default, is hard to question. In a sense, it’s a violation of your role and going against what you were hired to do, but there are also many instances when it should be considered necessary.

When the power dynamic between a superior and their subordinates is exploited, it’s a sure way to tempt a dysfunctional imbalance in the relationship. Whether a supervisor or manager realizes it or not, they’ll have an easier time putting the blame on those they lead rather than themselves. When more likely than not, it’s about a separate issue or uncontrollable factors that lead to falling short of expectations or work goals.

Standing up for yourself doesn’t require confrontation; it can be as easy as knowing in your own heart and mind that your boss has unreasonable demands and that, seeing as they’re unreasonable, should be the validation you need to fall back on your personal values and sense of self-worth.

Don’t take things to heart if you’re unjustifiably made to feel like you’re incompetent or at fault. And if that seems to be a trend, like you can only do wrong and any questions or suggestions you might voice to improve matters aren’t taken seriously, then you know it’s not you; it’s most definitely them making you out to be the bad guy.

2. You Don’t Have Time for Yourself

A toxic employer will often leave you feeling like you have no time for yourself. With never-ending workdays, excessive workloads, and unrealistic expectations, you may find yourself in a position where your work-life balance becomes increasingly difficult to maintain. It is important to be able to recognize when an employer is encroaching on your personal time, as this can lead to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and reduced job satisfaction.

Another red flag is the expectation to be constantly available. In today’s connected world, it’s not uncommon for employees to receive emails or messages outside of working hours. However, a toxic employer will often blur the lines between work and personal time, expecting you to respond to these communications immediately, regardless of the hour. This can make it challenging to disengage from work, causing stress and a negative impact on your overall well-being.

A toxic employer might also have a habit of overloading employees with work, making it nearly impossible for them to take time off. In these situations, vacation time or personal days can feel like a distant dream, as employees are constantly pressured to complete tasks and meet ever-increasing deadlines. This lack of time off can have serious consequences on both mental and physical health, as it deprives individuals of the opportunity to rest, recharge, and enjoy their personal lives.

Finally, it is important to watch out for employers who are dismissive or unsupportive of your need for self-care. A healthy work environment should encourage employees to prioritize their well-being, but a toxic employer may undermine this by making you feel guilty for taking breaks or attending to personal matters. In the long run, neglecting self-care can lead to a host of problems, including burnout, reduced productivity, and strained relationships both inside and outside the workplace.

3. They Always Ask for More

One of the most insidious traits of a toxic employer is their seemingly insatiable appetite for more from their employees. This constant demand for increased productivity, longer hours, and better results can create a culture of overwork and stress. It is essential to recognize when an employer’s expectations are becoming unreasonable, as this can lead to exhaustion, decreased job satisfaction, and ultimately, employee turnover.

A toxic employer may also have a habit of moving the goalposts, making it difficult for employees to feel a sense of accomplishment. By continually raising expectations and setting unattainable targets, these employers create an environment where workers are always striving to meet ever-changing objectives. This can result in a constant state of anxiety, as employees feel they are never doing enough to satisfy their superiors.

Another warning sign is the lack of recognition and appreciation for your hard work and dedication. A toxic employer will often take credit for the successes of their team while placing blame on employees for any failures or setbacks. This can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment as employees are denied the acknowledgment they deserve for their efforts. Furthermore, the absence of positive feedback and reinforcement can make it challenging to stay motivated and engaged in your work.

Lastly, a toxic employer may use manipulation and coercion to pressure employees into doing more than their fair share. This can manifest in various ways, such as guilt-tripping, passive-aggressive comments, or even threats of job loss. Such tactics can make employees feel trapped and powerless, unable to advocate for themselves without fearing retribution. In the long run, this dynamic can severely damage an employee’s self-esteem and overall well-being, making it critical to identify and address these red flags early on.

Related Article: What To Do When You Feel Like the Odd One Out at Work

4. You Never Know What to Expect

A key red flag in identifying a toxic employer is an unpredictable work environment. When you never know what to expect, it can create a constant state of unease and anxiety. Inconsistency in expectations, management style, or even mood can leave employees feeling uncertain and insecure about their performance and job security. This lack of stability can make it difficult for workers to develop trust in their employer and cultivate a healthy, positive workplace culture.

Another aspect of this unpredictability is the absence of clear communication from management. A toxic employer may fail to provide employees with essential information about their job responsibilities, project goals, or performance expectations. This lack of transparency can lead to confusion and frustration as employees struggle to understand what is expected of them and how to achieve success in their roles. Furthermore, this ambiguity can create a breeding ground for gossip and speculation, further eroding trust and morale within the team.

In some cases, a toxic employer may engage in mood swings or erratic behavior, making it challenging for employees to anticipate how their actions will be received. This inconsistency can lead to a constant state of walking on eggshells as workers attempt to avoid triggering a negative reaction from their employer. This type of environment not only fosters fear and stress but can also severely impact an employee’s mental health and overall job satisfaction.

Lastly, a toxic employer may create an atmosphere of favoritism, where certain employees receive preferential treatment while others are left feeling unsupported or unfairly targeted. This inconsistency in treatment can lead to feelings of resentment and division among team members, ultimately damaging the cohesion and collaboration necessary for a successful workplace. Recognizing these red flags early on is crucial for preserving your well-being and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the face of a toxic employer.


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Sarah Lowe

Sarah Lowe is a contributing writer at SimpleHermit.com. She identifies as an ISFP and is studying digital media at Washington State University.