Dr. Laura digs deeper into the subject of toxic bosses in this episode, discussing how to identify a potentially toxic boss before you start working for one. Toxic bosses are unfortunately prevalent, with a 2023 survey finding that 87% of professionals have had at least one toxic boss in their careers. But there are warning signs, and Dr. Laura lists some, highlighting what to look for and how to get the answers we need before joining a toxic workplace.

One of the key ways to investigate a boss before working for them is through mutual connections, especially on LinkedIn. Dr. Laura explains the value of maintaining connections and how to broach the subject of a boss with former or current employees. She breaks down how to decipher the answers we receive, identifying the warning signs of a toxic boss. What is being said? What isn’t being said? There are things to look for in the interview, as well. The boss isn’t just interviewing us, we’re interviewing them! Dr. Laura names some warning behaviors that can be seen even in those initial conversations. Not every boss will be toxic and not every challenging workplace has a toxic boss leading it, but this episode gives sound insight into spotting the red flags of a toxic boss before we sign up to work with them. 

“Are people burnt out? Asking those questions can go a long way. And if you hear the answer is yes, it is a demanding place and people are exhausted and burnt out, that's somewhere that you don't want to be. That doesn't mean you don't want to be in a challenging, invigorating, busy workplace. And of course, there'll be periods where you're going to be working hard. But is it a constant strain? Is it under-resourced? And [are] people expected to be on call 24/7? [That] is a recipe for burnout.” Dr. Laura

About Dr. Laura:

Dr. Laura Hambley Lovett is a work and career psychologist and thought leader on the evolution of work. She has always been fascinated by how work intersects with life and loves to use her expertise to improve organizations and help people thrive. Her passion for taking creative ideas and launching them into successful business strategies led her to start three counselling psychology practices (Calgary Career Counselling, Canada Career Counselling, and Synthesis Psychology), as well as six different business brands offering organizational assessment and consulting services.

Dr. Laura is honoured to have been selected as a Woman of Distinction in Canada in 2014 and received a Canadian Woman of Inspiration Award as a Global Influencer in 2018.

Resources:

Dr. Laura on LinkedIn

Where Work Meets Life™ on YouTube

Learn more about Dr. Laura on her website: https://drlaura.live

For more resources, look into Dr. Laura’s organizations: 

Canada Career Counselling

Synthesis Psychology

Pre-order Dr. Laura’s new book today: I Wish I’d Quit Sooner: Practical Strategies for Navigating a Toxic Boss

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