In this post I’d like to start from the beginning which is the actual job interview process.

In the interview process there are a few things I’d like to point out that may help you avoid accepting a position with a company that has problems with workplace intimidation.

If you’ve ever worked for a place where people have no respect for each other, who ignore you, insult you in front of others and worse, then you know what I’m talking about. Here are a couple of things to watch for when interviewing for a new job to help you make a decision on whether or not to take a position.

Keep in mind, the interview is a two way street. You have the right to ask your questions of them also.

So, Be Observant.

A suggestion that might help you avoid this type of workplace intimidation when considering a new company is to listen carefully when you are interviewing.

You may have a potential problem ahead if your prospective manager only uses phrases such as follows:

• “We are looking for people who will be dedicated to getting the job done.”
• “There is a lot of work to be done, but the person committed to our mission is the one who will go far.
• “We expect extra hours when necessary.”
• “A real company man’s/woman’s family understands what it takes to succeed in a career.”

These phrases seem reasonable initially.

However, listen carefully to what is not being said. If you don’t also hear phrases such as these:

• “We feel it is important to balance work and a personal life.”
• “While we have peak workload periods that will require some extra hours, we try to be reasonable in our expectations.”
• “We care about your family and though we stay really busy with the project, we don’t sacrifice them for the job.”

Don’t let your enthusiasm or desperate need for a job clog your ears. Listen with wisdom. (excerpted from Alligators in the Water Cooler: A Guide to Identifying Bullies & Their Buddies in the Workplace, by Judith E. Munson)

Another suggestion is to pay close attention to the interviewer(s) body language. Is he making eye contact with you or is he looking everywhere else except at you.

That’s a sign of deceitfulness. If your gut is telling you this job may not be right for you…listen to it.