I'm interviewing for a role that could be interesting, but I've read stories online about the CEO that concern me, and as an internal communicator, could directly impact me.

Laura McLeod

April 21,2022 at 2:30PM UTC

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I'm interviewing for a role that could be interesting, but I've read stories online about the CEO that concern me, and as an internal communicator, could directly impact me. A lot of people have left the company. While part of my job is culture, I just came from a bad situation with bad leadership and left because of it. What kinds of questions should I ask in an interview that will help me gauge what it's really like? Glassdoor echos a lot of what I've read already. I'm not ready to put my well-being in jeopardy. Thanks!

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AnonymousApril 21,2022 at 3:57PM UTC
If/when interviewing I would ask each yo describe the culture or important features of their culture they each value and what changes they'd like to see.
Rebecca AliApril 21,2022 at 4:00PM UTC
It sounds like you already have red flags for this role. If you're having uncertainty before you even interview, it's a concern no matter how interesting the role is. If you pursue the role, I think you can ask the interviewer about what you've been reading online and see what they say. Nothing like being direct.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistApril 21,2022 at 7:09PM UTC
That sounds like a lot of red flags although Glassdoor reviews should be taken with a big grain of salt.
You might want to check https://www.Comparably.com it's an employee review site that differs from other sites as they focus on collecting CURRENT EMPLOYEE sentiment.
FYI - I have no affiliation with them.
Monica Lynn SadlerApril 21,2022 at 10:02PM UTC
I would check for additional reviews beyond GlassDoor. Google the CEO's name, company, check his/her FaceBook, Instagram, etc. As well, I encourage you to ascertain whether the reviews are nitpicking or seem genuine. Let's face it...no job is perfect. However, if it is that the CEO is just not a nice person based on your research, RUN! Your mental health come first always. Praying for you. <3
AnonymousApril 22,2022 at 12:28PM UTC
Can you find any connections with people who work/worked there and see if you can get any advice from them? A great question for people who left is "what would have made you decide to stay" and see if there have been any changes made, based on people leaving? You're right -- if it doesn't seem like a safe environment, you don't want the job!
Laura McLeodApril 22,2022 at 6:46PM UTC
So to clarify, I'm not basing my concerns just on Glassdoor. I know those are grain-of-salt reviews and experience can differ by what we bring to it. I have done some research, hence my post here. I asked for ways to ask interview questions that could help me assess current state. Just asking about culture doesn't get to the depth that speaks to the day to day workplace.