Career advice: Dream Job, Nightmare Boss

MartinBrussels

I recently interviewed with a hot-shot company in my industry for a job that would put me in a fast track to the top of my field. I interviewed with two managers to whom I would report directly and they're eager to bring me aboard. However, when I met with the head of the organization, I endured the most toxic interview one could imagine. I'm sure it was meant to be one of those "stress" interviews, but now I'm having second thoughts about this employer. Afterwards, one of the managers called to tell me that I shouldn't let this person influence my decision to join the organization, that he was a manic-depressive, that I wouldn't have much contact with him and that he was being "isolated" from the rest of the staff. I'm used to high-stress work environments and can take a lot of guff, but this seems weird. Still, this job would be great for my career. They've made me an attractive offer. What should I do?

Daniel's advice

Obviously, this company is eager to have you join. What isn't clear is why someone with your ability to get a lucrative job offer would want to work for someone who you know -- from your own experience and from the description of others -- has significant problems, whatever the cause. He's the head of the organization, and, as such, probably has his hand in most aspects of the business. It's naÃ¯ve to think he doesn't have an impact on his staff. This kind of stress filters down to everyone when it comes directly from the top, despite assurances to the contrary. Ask yourself, "Exactly who 'isolates' him from the rest of the staff?"

If this company has made you an attractive offer, other companies will too. Our first suggestion is to use this leverage to find another good company to align yourself with for the future. There's always more than one road to travel to make a great career. Find a better road and live without this kind of unnecessary stress.

However, if you feel you must take this job, do some more research. First, ask to speak to two or three people who've worked there for at least two years. Find out what their experience has been and how they deal with this manager. Second, carefully consider what they tell you and make a list of the pros and cons of working there. Third, write down the worst-case scenario if you take this job -- then decide if you can live with it if it should come true. If you do join, arm yourself with a strategy that will allow you to maintain a good attitude and will help you adapt to the situation.

Topics: Hierarchy · Boss · All topics