A while back I wrote a column entitled “Who Not to Hire,” a tongue-in-cheek play on the popular cable show “What Not to Wear.” 

It so happens that this is the column a senior VP from a major tech company blasted me about in three rather insulting e-mails. As I got to thinking what a jerk this guy is, I thought about adding a description of his behavioral style to my list of who not to hire.

But then I had a better idea.

As a senior VP, this guy must be an ass to work for. I have no doubt that if anyone disagrees with his point of view or does anything he perceives as “wrong,” he makes their work life a living hell.

So, in deference to employment seekers, I thought it only fair to use this guy’s warped personality as a foundation for a list of “Who Not to Work For.”

Side note: If your boss matches one of the styles I’m about to describe, maybe it’s time to seek work elsewhere?  Life is too short to work for jerks.

Rule # 1. Do not work for Arrogant Belittlers.

  These people have rough exteriors, but they’re usually insecure with fragile egos. They feel good about themselves by putting down others and survive by intimidation. Phrases you might hear include: What do you mean you don’t know? What’s your problem? Do I have to show you everything? If you can’t do this, I can find someone else who can. . . . 

This type publicly criticizes their employees and insults those who aren’t impressed with their inflated sense of self-importance. And, they typically create a hostile work environment. You can do better. Much better.

Rule # 2. Do not work for Blame-aholics.

  With Blame-aholics, all problems are everyone else’s fault. When they can’t find something, someone else must have moved it. If they burn their tongue on hot coffee, they blame the person who served it to them. In essence, they never admit they could do things differently or that they have room for improvement.

Similar to Arrogant Belittlers, Blame-aholics resort to judgmental criticism, condescending sarcasm, and even passive-aggressive retaliation. Again, this develops into a hostile work environment. Say “no thank you,” and move on.

  . . . more to follow . . .

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Filed in Work, Business, Opinion, Management, Leadership, Workplace