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I've just left (quit) a toxic environment where a fellow female employee threatened me with physical violence, unprovoked, during a meeting in front of witnesses and, when we all stepped forward to report it, mine and the witnesses' jobs were threatened, the 'head of HR' - a.k.a.

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Melanee Packard

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I've just left (quit) a toxic environment where a fellow female employee threatened me with physical violence, unprovoked, during a meeting in front of witnesses and, when we all stepped forward to report it, mine and the witnesses' jobs were threatened, the 'head of HR' - a.k.a. the owner's wife, belittled me, called me vulgar names and insulted my intelligence in my absence in front of all of the other employees because I came forward with the complaint.

It feels as all of those involved in reporting her for the threat and other issues - lying to management, slandering vendors and customers - woke up in a different dimension. So few websites allow honest reviews of toxic environments. How can you FIND an employer who doesn't support this type of work environment.

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  1. Anonymous

    Oh dear, that's terrible!!

    My jobs have all been long-term found through sources as previous colleagues who work at the new company. I research their website as much as possible too.

    I don't have anything additional of value to contribute as advice, though am praying for you to find the right fit.

  2. Anonymous

    You are extremely fortunate.

    While online research helps with organizational structure, you truly find out once the Honeymoon Period ends. I worked at a place that on day 5....bad surprise. I've since left and they went out of business. (My leaving had nothing to do with closing- embezzlement going on by seniority)

    To OP, best advice is to start looking again- it won't change until you exit.

  3. Anonymous

    What I shared is absolutely helpful researching the company you're considering applying for. I was able to find that I already knew employees that work there and reached out to inquire about the climate (so I knew what to expect 'once the honeymoon period' ended). I chose wisely with God's guidance. Yes, I've been blessed. And to the OP, may your job hunt reveal the perfect opportunities for you.

  4. Kimberly Johnson

    I really depend on my senses to assess those I interview with. It is truly all I have to trust.

  5. Anonymous

    I'd contact police and put in for harassment.

  6. Anonymous

    Police will say to find a new job and separate yourself from the organization.

    They won't do anything- departments are stressed on the unsolved murders and kidnappings or whatever else is a priority.

    All they will do is write our a report because they HAVE to and say "have a good day ma'am " as they walk out the door.

  7. Anonymous

    They could cite the person depending on what state you're in, so not quite.

  8. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    I would start by looking for a position in a larger organization where the owner's wife is not likely to be in charge of HR. Or anything else.

    Family run companies are a hard no from me.

  9. Anonymous

    Exactly!!!

  10. Anonymous

    Seconding; I’ve worked for a couple of family-run businesses and swore I’d never do that again. Trust me: if you’re not in with them, you’re out. Not to mention that they do not have legitimate systems set up like an HR department (such functions are usually under the auspices of the so-called office manager). OP needs to start looking elsewhere, preferably with a larger, more professional company.

  11. Anonymous

    When you work for families you get involved in the family dynamics. It's not as objective and professional.

  12. Anonymous

    Never work for a family! Been there, done that!

  13. Anonymous

    What sort of business is this? What is your profession?

    I don't think you'll ever get the full picture when it comes to company reviews. Everything you read is going to be that person's opinion. That person could be the worst possible employee ever that finally got called out on their BS and so now looking for an outlet for their perceived grievances. It could be someone who never actually worked there. If a review looks too good to be true, I'd dare say it was a 'bought' review.

    Like others have echoed, I'd stay away from the small, family run businesses. Along with businesses where everyone is one big happy family.

    In interviews, trust your gut. Ask questions that are important to you in gauging an employer's culture.

  14. Melanee Packard

    I've been in the Construction industry for 25+ years: permitting, accounting, administration and I even spent some time as a construction manager building houses - so I've SEEN dysfunction. This place was unlike any of the others and, in the interview with the owner, I expressed that I will no longer work in a dramatic/toxic environment, and he SWORE that he didn't allow it.

    It's difficult out there to get legitimate feedback on employers so you know where to go and when to stay away.

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