Job interviews can be overwhelming. There is a lot to think about, consider, and prepare for before the interview. While much of your preparation is likely spent on crafting great interview question responses and researching the employer, there is another essential thing our Toronto software recruiters stress you should prioritize – your potential leader. As they say, you don’t quit companies, you quit your manager. In working on thousands of recruitment projects, we’ve seen it repeatedly – managers are cited as a top reason people love or hate their jobs.
A strong relationship with your manager is one of the top factors that determine your job satisfaction. Therefore, when evaluating a new position, it’s essential to consider how well you’ll connect with your prospective boss.
No one wants to work for a toxic boss or bad leader. Below, I’ll list some ways you can spot a bad leader in a job interview:
1. They don’t have a great track record
Research the manager and see what you can find about them online. Check out their LinkedIn, company website, and socials to get a sense of what they are like. And if possible find former employees to ask for their perspective.
2. Treatment of people
Pay attention to how the manager treats you throughout the interview process. Also, pay close attention to how they treat others they interact with in your presence.
3. Disorganized or unprepared
When a manager arrives late, seems distracted, or doesn’t have a clear structure for the interview, it’s a sign of potential issues to come.
4. They interrupt or talk over you
Watch out for managers who dominate the conversation without allowing you to express yourself fully. This could be a sign they will expect things done one way and you will have little input.
5. Lack of clear expectations
All people want a clear explanation of what is expected of them. Look out for managers who fail to explain the role, responsibilities, or success metrics clearly.
6. Negative attitude about the company or team
Speaks poorly of current employees or the company culture is a big red flag. Leaders with a negative attitude could create challenges for you.
7. Dodges questions or offers vague answers
Watch out for managers who avoid answering direct questions about leadership style, challenges, or company dynamics. You don’t want to work for someone who keeps you in the dark. You want to work for people who provide clear responses to your inquiries.
8. They focus excessively on flaws or criticism
You want to work for leaders who have a positive outlook on things. Be wary of leaders who are overly critical of previous employees or highlight problems without discussing solutions.
9. They don’t ask about your goals
Great leaders care about you and your career goals. It’s a red flag if leaders show little interest in your professional growth, aspirations, or how the role aligns with your future.
10. Lack of enthusiasm
Leaders need to get their people excited and inspire them to do great things. Watch out for leaders who show no passion for the company, role, or team, signalling a lack of commitment to fostering a positive work environment.
The above are 10 signs that you are interviewing with a potentially bad leader. Watch out for these and other signs to ensure you take a job with an employer that values you and provides you with a great career opportunity.
More Job Interview Advice From Our Software Recruiters
10 Green Flags to Look For When Interviewing Your Next Potential Boss
What Do Good Hiring Managers All Have in Common? These 10 Traits
6 Common Limiting Beliefs That Are Holding You Back In Your Career
