12 Signs You Are Dealing with a Toxic Boss

It is estimated that as many as 1 in 6 people have experienced toxicity in the workplace. Whether it is overt or covert, toxicity can have a major impact on your mental and physical health, as well as your job satisfaction and productivity.

While there are many different types of toxic behavior, there are some common signs that you may be dealing with a toxic boss. If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to have a conversation with your boss or HR department.

1. They micromanage your every move.

One of the clearest signs that you are dealing with a toxic boss is if they are constantly looking over your shoulder, second-guessing your every decision, and nitpicking your work.

This kind of behavior communicates a lack of trust and respect, and can quickly lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. If you have tried unsuccessfully to address the issue, it may be time to speak with HR.

2. They take credit for your work.

Another sign that you may be dealing with a toxic boss is if they regularly take credit for your ideas and hard work. This not only devalues your contributions but can also create an environment of competition rather than collaboration.

If you have evidence that this is happening, it may be helpful to document the instances.

3. They refuse to give you feedback.

In order to do our best work, we need feedback—both positive and constructive. If your boss consistently refuses to give you feedback, it may be because they want to maintain control or because they don’t actually care about your work.

Either way, this lack of communication can create an unhealthy working relationship.

4. They make everything about them.

A telling sign that you are dealing with a toxic boss is if they make everything about themselves—their successes, their problems, their needs.

This behavior communicates a distinct lack of interest in or concern for others, which can quickly lead to feelings of alienation and resentment. If you have tried unsuccessfully to address the issue yourself, speaking with someone may be the best course of action. 

5. They play favorites. 

Another sign that you may be dealing with a toxic boss is if they play favorites among their employees—showering some with praise while putting others down, or singling out certain employees for special treatment while ignoring others altogether.

Not only is this behavior unfair, but it can also breed resentment and mistrust among coworkers.

6. They gossip a lot.

Gossiping is a form of toxic behavior that can have a major impact on morale and productivity in the workplace. If your boss is regularly gossiping about other employees, it may be time to have a conversation.

7. They are unpredictable. 

If your boss is constantly changing their mind, yelling at employees, or behaving in a generally unpredictable manner, it can create an environment of fear and insecurity.

This type of behavior is often a sign of larger underlying issues, such as unresolved anger or substance abuse. If you are concerned about your safety, it may be best to speak with HR.

8. They make impossible demands. 

Toxic bosses often make impossible demands, such as expecting employees to work unreasonable hours or complete unrealistic tasks.

This type of behavior can quickly lead to burnout. If you have tried unsuccessfully to address the issue, it may be best to think about different options, such as looking for a new job.

9. They take advantage of you. 

Toxic bosses often take advantage of their employees, whether it’s asking them to do personal errands or expecting them to work on weekends.

This type of behavior is not only unfair, but it can also lead to feelings of resentment and bitterness.

10. Your boss belittles you in front of other people.

This is a common tactic used by toxic bosses to embarrass and humiliate their employees. Not only is this behavior unacceptable, but it can also lead to feelings of shame and inadequacy. Belitting behavior is often a sign of deeper underlying issues, such as insecurity or low self-esteem.

11. They are never satisfied. 

No matter how hard you try, a toxic boss will never be satisfied. They will always find something to criticize or nitpick. This type of behavior can be demoralizing and soul-crushing. Not only that, but it can also lead to feelings of self-doubt and insecurity.

12. You feel like you're always walking on eggshells around your boss

This is a common sign that you are dealing with a toxic boss. If you feel like you have to tiptoe around your boss or watch what you say, this could cause you a lot of stress. Not only that, but it can also lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Final Thoughts

If you find yourself nodding along to any of the above points, then it's safe to say that you're dealing with a toxic boss. If this is the case, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from their negativity.

This could mean setting boundaries, speaking up for yourself, or even finding a new job if the situation is truly intolerable. No one deserves to be made to feel like they're not good enough, so don't hesitate to take action if you find yourself in this situation.