Most people spend more time with their coworkers than with friends or family, so it’s important to know when something’s a little… off. Whether it’s subtle behavior or full-on drama, some red flags are too big to ignore.
From backhanded compliments to mysterious disappearances, these warning signs can spell trouble in any workplace. Here are 15 coworker red flags that should definitely raise your eyebrows—maybe even both.
15. They Always “Joke” About Quitting
Every day is a dramatic countdown to their last day. It’s funny until it starts tanking morale.
14. They Love Gossip — Especially About People in the Room
They’ll throw anyone under the bus with a smile. If they’re talking about others to you, they’re definitely talking about you to others.
13. They Take Credit for Group Work
They somehow end up as the hero of every team project. Funny how they’re always at the front of the parade without doing the heavy lifting.
12. They Never Take Responsibility
Everything is someone else’s fault—always. They’re allergic to accountability and quick to deflect.
11. They Constantly “Forget” Meetings or Deadlines
Once in a while is human. Every week? That’s a red flag waving in high definition.
10. They Micromanage Everyone
They don’t trust anyone but themselves. If you’ve got someone hovering over your desk for no reason, it’s time to set boundaries.
9. They Brag About Doing the Bare Minimum
They’ll proudly tell you how they coasted through the week. Not exactly the energy you want on a team trying to get things done.
8. They’re Always the Victim
No matter what happens, they’re the ones being wronged. Drama follows them like a cloud, and they’re never the problem.
7. They Undermine People in Meetings
They’ll throw out a passive-aggressive dig and pretend it was helpful. It’s not feedback—it’s sabotage in disguise.
6. They Love Playing Office Politics
They know exactly who to charm and when. You never quite trust their smile—or their motives.
5. They Act Completely Different Around Management
One personality for coworkers, another for the boss. It’s like watching a Jekyll-and-Hyde routine.
4. They Refuse to Help Anyone
Need a quick favor? Don’t ask them—they’re “too busy” unless it benefits them.
3. They Treat Everything Like a Competition
They can’t just do a good job—they need to beat everyone at it. Even casual conversations feel like a race.
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2. They Overshare Personal Drama
You know everything about their love life, family fights, and medical history—whether you wanted to or not. Boundaries? Never heard of them.
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1. They Always Bring Negativity
Every meeting is “pointless,” every project “stupid,” and every change “a disaster.” They drain the vibe like it’s their job.
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