How To Pick The Right Boss

Jun 8 / Robert Christiansen
I've always quit my boss, not the job.

I'd take less money and work longer hours with the right boss.

Because I love working for people who make me feel valued.

After several bad bosses, I included these steps during the interview:

1. Research Their Reputation
- I check Glassdoor for reviews from current and former employees. I look for patterns in the feedback.
- I dig into their social media profiles. It is wild what people post on FB, which is the opposite of what they say in the interview.

2. Ask the Right Questions
- "Can you describe the company culture and your management style?"
- "How do you handle conflict or disagreements within the team?"
- "What do you think is the most important quality for someone to be successful here?"

3. Pay Attention
- What was their demeanor during the interview? Are they respectful and attentive, or dismissive and condescending?
 - Notice how they talk about their team and colleagues. Do they show respect and appreciation, or are they critical and negative?

4. Talk to Current Employees
- If possible, I will speak with current team members. Their perspectives always provide valuable insights.
- I look for employees on LinkedIn who have worked under this boss and ask to speak with them about their experience. Also very informative.

5. Look for Red Flags (and don't ignore them)
- Do they frequently interrupt you during the interview?
- Is there a lot of negative talk about past employees?
- Are there inconsistencies in their stories or answers?

6. Trust Your Gut
- If something feels off, it probably is. Your intuition is a powerful tool. Use it.

The process is never foolproof but can expose the wolf in sheep's clothes.

Be honest with yourself. Talk it out with a trusted friend or mentor.

It matters.

You matter.

You got this.

I love you all.

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