How do you warn candidates of a toxic work environment?

33 Comments

1. AnonymousAugust 19,2024 at 8:20PM UTC

   I'd like to add resources I dig up when going on interviews:

   Glassdoor

   facebook

   reddit

   Linkedin, current employees

   If a non-profit I look up their public financials to see how they pay their executives if it's fair or an unreasonable pay gap. How long people have been in the company especially the job I'm interviewing for

2. Linda McCurryAugust 19,2024 at 9:26PM UTC

   There are many times I have wished this myself

3. AnonymousAugust 19,2024 at 10:06PM UTC

   Glassdoor dot com or an anonymous Google review. Leave it at that and move on. . . .

4. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 1:45AM UTC

   You can make it known in subtle ways especially if you are a part of the interview process and are to train your replacement. The woman who worked for my supervisor before she retired and I took her place told me many things that I chose to ignore and gloss over, Her advice was, and still is, right on track. I wish I had paid more attention to her subtle warnings. I now find myself doing the work of 4 people who were there when I started. I am the only person still standing with a boss who is developing dementia and needs to close the business. Without whining or complaining, it is acceptable to be honest about your duties in the company. Are your co-workers toxic? If so, say that maintaining some independence and autonomy is valuable? Stress the value of taking your breaks to step away from the office.

   Is there someone there who doesn't value the time of others, or their input? Just say something like how great it is that everyone leaves on time when the work day ends. Talk about the things you do outside of work to remind others that it's important not to make work your life.

5. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 2:19PM UTC

   Oh this is dicey. What's interesting is that you never know who is interviewing. Their situation could be worse than the one you're in. They could also thrive there.

   My advice is to
   -create a dummy account and leave a review on Glassdoor- before you leave.
   -If it's a bad place, consider reporting it-- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/hostile-work-environment

   Other ideas
   -I wouldn't say aim to dissuade them, rather use accurate information.If it's highly competitive, say so. If it's got managers who have authoritarian work styles say so. Toxic is an overgeneralized word, so find other words. If you work long hours, say so. Don't overload with all bad news, but be clear to arm them to make a decision.
   -Listen to the interviewee's questions and answer them professionally, but honestly. For example, I had an interviewee really interested in professional development. I said that I hadn't had any in the X years I'd been there (the truth was there was none). She later didn't accept the offer.

   I sense you want to warn them (and are assuming they shouldn't work there based on your experience - which for all intents and purposes may be the overall assessment). Depending on your role at the company and the risks you're willing to take, that's your call. I've been in your shoes and it's hard. Another way to go is to encourage the interviewee to ask deep questions of the folks they meet. Also, in a pinch, you could be lackluster in your demeanor and answers. They may sense the vibe.

   Good luck.

6. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 4:03PM UTC

   Ooh tough one. Can you gracefully recuse yourself? The candidate probably wants to meet the people he/she will end up working with.

   As another person noted, your grass may actually be greener than theirs is right now. So they deserve a shot to make a difference in your workplace even as you want to make your exit.

   good luck!

7. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 5:00PM UTC

   Much great advice here, and all within a handful of comments.

   Depending on how your leadership views it, you could set up a meeting with the potential candidate's teammate(s). This I've noticed is a practice in many recent interviews.

   Then, it's up to the candidate to ask the hard questions.

   Or you could leave a breadcrumb trail by asking questions like, how do you feel best supported in your workplace? or how do you handle stress? Questions like those are mini red flags that candidates can pick up on. I do agree that depending on a candidate's situation, they could pick up those clues, but still need the job despite the red flags, nuances or not.

   Sometimes the more seasoned candidates, are even skillful at navigating office politics and know how to work around toxic people.

   Good Luck!

8. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 6:10PM UTC

   Best is to leave and use something like glassdoor or blind to post a public informative factual warning there. In the interviews if asked about culture you can tell the candidate that they should assess this themselves based upon the feedback they find while doing their own research. Definitely keep it positive when in the interviews and let them think for themselves.

   I would also advise to not share your functional role and or dates of employment exactly as they will likely be able to figure out who you are at the company which could leave to an exit sooner than you hoped. Good luck in your search.

9. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 6:51PM UTC

   This is not your problem to solve. Just because your experience at this employer hasn't been the best doesn't mean everyone else will have the same. This will be unpopular but it's a little arrogant to think you're the arbiter of what constitutes a bad work environment. Keep your head down, stay in your lane, and remain focused on holding a fair and impartial interview, and choosing the best candidate. These are grown professional adults, no need for you to throw up the red flags, they can manage this on their own.

10. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 9:17PM UTC

    Eeeks, this is far outside your lane. I wouldn't say a word. Everyone has their own view of toxic and you can't define that.

11. AnonymousAugust 20,2024 at 11:38PM UTC

    Always speak highly of your employer. Welcome them in to be the change you want to see. These new workers may be better prospects, with different views too.

    but in the meantime if you are done there get that fantastic resume updated and find a more fertile environment to work.

12. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 4:52AM UTC

    I just began work at a company 3 months ago. When I met the owner, he was charismatic, helpful, and very encouraging. He sold me on his company like he was selling me a car. When we interviewed, I met him, his wife his CFO and a couple others. They had smiles on their faces and joked around, told me work life balance was super important and that they appreciated my workmanship. I was so excited to start work with them, until a week into my employment, and they clearly glamorized their day to day. I won't say much besides I have clearly been insulted and disrespected by my boss, the office talk is out of hand, and the CFO is a jerk and I'm as convinced as the other women in the workplace that he could have a sexual harassment issue on his hands. But he's my boss's best friend and gets away with everything.

    I'm glad you are leaving, and I wish someone had told me prior not to get too excited about this new position. But saving your butt and your reputation is definitely most important and people will make their own decisions in the future. It sucks but telling people not to work there might stir up some conflict with your boss and ruin references, he/she might even be able to steal from future employment opportunities. Girl smile and run.

13. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 12:11PM UTC

    I would suggest saying something like "we aren't for everyone. Let me tell you some good points about company and some not so good points." And then keep it factual. You say it us toxic. Perhaps you gave direct evidence there are financial troubles or perhaps you can say there us little opportunity for growth in the role, or make factual statements, if true, there are no women in Leadership roles. Completely factual but would be off putting.

14. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 12:14PM UTC

    You don't if you don't want to put yourself at risk of getting sued....

15. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 12:33PM UTC

    I had an interview where the HR person carefully pointed out that they were a Catholic hospital system and staff on duty were expected to support the Catholic teachings. I thought about that and withdrew my application.

16. Ashley StrosniderAugust 21,2024 at 1:21PM UTC

    I had a similar experience in media, where the interviewer tactfully asked me a couple situational questions regarding some of the "company culture" expectations that affected life outside of the office (how employees chose to manage their money and personal living situations, etc). She gave me an opportunity to read between the lines, which I really respected, and I withdrew my application. I think she was happy there — rather than also looking to leave, as it sounds like OP is — but understood it wouldn't be a fit for everyone.

17. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 12:36PM UTC

    Hey OP,

    I totally understand your concern, I have been in your exact shoes. Even now I wish someone would've left any kind of another review on Glassdoor or wherever that I would've seen about my current company. However, as unbelievable as it seems there are people here who are ok with all of the koolaide drinking and they'll stay no matter what.

    But I don't think that is your burden to carry. I also understand the discomfort around interviewing candidates when you are trying to leave. Is there any chance you could step down from that? If not, then then only thing you should worry about is not saying something that will cause you trouble at work since it may get back to them. When I was stuck doing interviews and was unhappy and the candidate asked questions like "how do I like it" or whatever, I would give a vague answer and try to get them talking or change the subject. To me, if that isn't a big enough hint then that's on them.

18. Paulla Fetzek, MSEdAugust 21,2024 at 1:33PM UTC

    Hello!

    I'm sorry that you have to work in such an unpleasant environment.

    However, I don't think it's professionally appropriate for you to say anything. As crazy as this may sound - what you may find toxic, someone else may be able to accept.

    As someone else noted, you have to be careful in what you convey lest word gets out and you receive repercussion.

19. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 2:07PM UTC

    That's a tough one. I know how you feel. My manager who was hiring me indirectly indicated that it is a toxic environment but me being so positive I took it as a challenge and accepted the job offer. 6 months later I regretted the decision and found myself stuck in that position. Good part was it paid my bills but mentally I took a toll.

    In your case I would recommend you can indirectly share and let the person decide what they want to do.

    JUST FYI FOR EVERYONE HERE - GLASSDOOR is bought out by companies. Most negative reviews are taken down by glassdoor per companies request.

20. AnonymousAugust 21,2024 at 2:20PM UTC

    Post it online with searchable Company related words.

21. SalinaAugust 21,2024 at 3:06PM UTC

    There should be a universal signal for a toxic working environment!! Great idea.

22. Zenzelai 18August 21,2024 at 3:41PM UTC

    Ask "What is one thing you wish someone would have explained to you during your first year on this job? "

23. Tami L CannizzaroAugust 21,2024 at 3:52PM UTC

    Short answer: You don't. It is not your job to express your views while interviewing potential candidates. As others have stated, what is considered a toxic environment to you may be just fine for someone else. Keep it professional and let the candidate decide for themselves. During an interview years ago, the person in charge of giving me a tour and letting me shadow him was clearly unhappy and shared his negative thoughts about the company. This did not dissuade me; it just made me think he was a disgruntled employee. Plus, I felt like I was robbed of quality time getting to learn more about the company. Don't do this to someone who is perhaps excited to land a job interview.

24. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 4:00PM UTC

    Agreed here. Set your feelings aside and allow them to make their own decision.

25. Molly FAugust 26,2024 at 12:33PM UTC

    This is the best response.

26. WandaAugust 29,2024 at 1:16PM UTC

    A great response!!!!!!

27. Jennie MontañoAugust 21,2024 at 4:21PM UTC

    As an interviewer you have to walk a fine line. I feel like there are subtle ways to discuss culture when asked. No matter what people will ultimately ignore red flags or join because there is something that they want from the company. I had a former colleague join the company I left in March and they were fully aware of the dumpster fire they were walking into but it in their mind it is a short term solution to a crap job market.

28. Farah BajwaAugust 21,2024 at 9:31PM UTC

    I once had the hiring manager just call me and tell me over the phone. We're still in touch via linkedin :)

    Are there any company reviews online that reflect this? If so maybe guide them to look at those reviews and they can read between the lines??

29. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 12:32PM UTC

    You don't. Unless you'd like to lose your job. Do your job , interview them & recommend the best candidate.

30. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 12:50PM UTC

    An astute interviewee will know the questions that they need to ask to get an understanding of the work culture.

    —what does a typical day at work look like?

    —if a salary position, are there core hours people generally adhere to at work?

    —what are the best things you like working at x,y,z

    —how supportive is Managnent in supporting your career development? And are there areas for improvement.

    —how does the team work together to accomplish x,y,z?

    In your response to these types of questions be factual and only opine on what your opinion on is asked for. Unless someone is doing something unethical, illegal or criminal, it’s best to allow the candidate to make their own judgment. (And at that point hopefully you have involved HR). You’d be surprised at how much someone can pick up on undertones.

    also Sometimes saying nothing says more than you know. If your field is small you never want to burn bridges and if you are unprofessional in your response it could come back to haunt you in the future. There is nothing wrong with keeping your new job search to your self until you have an offer in hand, so do not let anyone know (including interviewee) until you are ready.

    Finally, should you decide to be open about the toxicity in the interview — in an unsolicited manner—it may come off as you not wanting them for the job, so they may not take your input at face value. Stick to being professional. Stick to being factual, let them read between the lines.

31. Wanda ShawAugust 26,2024 at 1:55PM UTC

    If only. But unfortunately, you can't or shouldn't. If the candidates are smart, they'll do their due diligence and research the company for themselves to find out if the culture is a good one. Also, I'm of the opinion that all workers aren't equal. Just because I had a bad experience at so-so company, doesn't mean that the next person coming in will. They may love it.

32. AyianAugust 26,2024 at 8:23PM UTC

    I once blatantly told prospective interviewees what to expect at a toxic employer. One of them thought it was an amazing idea to call the boss and tell him so. I had yet another yelling session from that boss who I told simply that if they didn't know what to expect and took the role in ignorance, most would leave within a few months, whereas someone who knew what kind of behavior to expect could make an informed decision. For some, the money might be worth the aggravation and stress. The interviewee who called was not hired and I was interviewing to replace myself. The employer had exactly the experience I warned about.

33. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 10:35PM UTC

    I’ve told folks that a work environment is empowering because manager is hands-off and gives you an opportunity to grow. Even that blew up because it implied lack of support, which was true. So now I only comment on the work. Interviewees should talk to current and recent employees for the scoop and not expect it from interviewers.