How To Spot A Bad Boss

A fancy title doesn’t make a good leader. 🚩

Watch for these red flags: micromanaging, poor communication, no accountability, and high turnover. A bad boss can ruin a great job.

1. They Don’t Respect Boundaries

Expecting constant availability or ignoring time off requests is a red flag for poor boundaries and burnout.

2. They Micromanage Everything

If they don’t trust you to do your job without hovering, it’s a sign of control issues and lack of confidence in their team.

3. They Avoid Accountability

A bad boss shifts blame, never owns mistakes, and often throws others under the bus.

4. Poor Communication

Vague instructions, last-minute changes, or not keeping you informed? That’s a sign of disorganisation or disrespect.

5. They Don’t Support Growth

If they dismiss your ideas, offer no feedback, or block advancement opportunities, they’re not invested in your development.

6. They Lead with Fear

Intimidation, public shaming, or constant criticism create a toxic environment and crush morale.

7. They Play Favorites

Unequal treatment or obvious favoritism poisons team dynamics and undermines fairness.

8. High Turnover on Their Team

If people keep quitting, it’s usually not a coincidence — it’s a sign something (or someone) is wrong.