A Reddit post by a frustrated job seeker has ignited intense debate over hiring practices and workplace culture in India, particularly in the tech hubs like Bengaluru. The user described being ghosted twice by a hiring manager who displayed what many called an entitled and toxic attitude.
The post, titled “Why do Indian hiring managers think they are GOD?”, resonated with thousands. The user recounted applying for a Product Owner role based in Bengaluru. The recruiter initially scheduled an interview, but the hiring manager failed to attend — offering no explanation or apology.
When the meeting was eventually rescheduled, the candidate said the manager arrived 15 minutes late again, without acknowledging the delay. Instead, he launched into a self-important speech, claiming he “basically runs the show.”
Despite the role being in engineering, the manager had already set rigid demands, insisting on a 5–6 day in-office presence — an unusual expectation for a PO role. “No basic courtesy, a fixed mindset, and clear signs of power-tripping,” the user remarked in the post.
The comment section quickly filled with similar stories. “Feels like modern-day slavery,” one user wrote. Another blamed systemic exploitation, noting that economic pressures make it hard for candidates to protest poor treatment. A third user pointed out the toxic cycle: “Abusive managers raise toxic juniors who go on to lead the same way.”
The viral post has triggered calls for deeper reflection in Indian corporate spaces. Familiar doesn’t mean acceptable — and it’s time that changed.
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