Should I quit?
I work as an executive assistant to the founder at an advertising agency. I'm into my second month in the role and I noticed the following:
- There was no proper onboarding and everything operates on a need-to-know basis.
- Instructions from the founder had no context and clear directions. When I ask clarifying questions, the founder gets frustrated and tells me I'm the one who's vague and disorganized.
- When the boss has free time, that's the time when he corners an employee and follows up on tasks and shames them in the GC.
- There is no proper HR department. His family and friends lead the HR department. They only provide adminsitrative and logistical support, but no support for employees.
- The boss only calls me for negative feedback and when he needs to vent about tasks that my coworkers failed to do.
- The boss never gave me any positive feedback.
- When I asked for feedback, he only said that he feels empowered.
- Days vary greatly—sometimes I do routine admin work, some days I was asked to book a catering service for 500 guests at a restaurant and was only given a week.
- He doesnt tell me what he needs, but only complains when his unclear expectations are not met.
- I've been meaning to set up an alignment call with him, but I hesitate because he's so condescending and ascerbic.
I have tried to let his negative energy and insulting remarks slide, because I know that he's busy and frustrated about his own situation. And also because I know things won't get better for me if I tell him how to communicate properly and improve his leadership skills. I have done what most EAs would do, like give him structure and options instead of asking open-ended questions, offer him solutions, record his instructions so no one gets the blame if he doesnt get what he wants.
I'm thinking of turning in my resignation once I find a new job lined up.
My question is, should I stay? If I stay, do you think his bad behavior will escalate?
I'm diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. My symptoms are getting worse. I am not sure if my boss is really toxic or is it just me and my condition. I badly need some advice.