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‘Toxic to work with...’: Reddit user criticises Indian colleagues, says their 'micromanagement is frustrating and draining'
ET Online | April 27, 2026 5:38 PM CST

Synopsis

A Reddit user's account of working with Indian colleagues abroad at a Big Four firm has sparked widespread discussion. The user detailed frustrations with perceived micromanagement, a lack of empathy, and constant update requests, impacting their workflow. Many online commenters shared similar experiences, while others offered differing perspectives on workplace dynamics and cultural influences.

Image use for representation
A Reddit user has shared their work experience with Indian colleagues while working abroad at a Big Four firm, highlighting concerns around workplace behaviour and communication. The post has drawn significant attention online, triggering a wave of responses from other users.

The individual stated that they work with professionals from multiple nationalities and found Indian colleagues to be highly focused on micromanagement, which they described as frustrating and exhausting. The user also claimed that there was a lack of empathy in interactions, with frequent criticism of completed tasks.

The user further said that constant requests for updates affected their workflow, particularly as they tend to hyperfocus on tasks due to ADHD. According to the user, adapting to these working styles has been difficult, adding that their seven month tenure at the firm has been draining.


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Concerns over communication and work culture

The user alleged that their colleagues frequently demanded updates and were critical of completed work. They also expressed that they felt the need to constantly adjust to their colleagues’ expectations, which added to workplace stress.

The post reflects broader concerns raised by the user about differences in work culture and collaboration in multinational environments.

Reactions highlight similar experiences and differing views

The post prompted a range of responses from other users, many of whom shared similar experiences. One user said they had colleagues who underestimated their abilities and even deleted their work before redoing it and claiming credit. The user added that version history tools helped them identify the issue and suggested escalating such matters to human resources.

Another user said that taking credit for others’ work was a recurring issue, noting that while not everyone behaves this way, they had encountered at least one such instance during each tax season.

Some users questioned workplace hierarchies, with one asking why managers would take credit for work completed by their seniors when roles and responsibilities differ.

Others shared mixed experiences. One user described an Indian manager as personable outside work but overly controlling in office settings, frequently monitoring employees and questioning minor actions. The situation reportedly led to an employee resigning, after which the manager underwent coaching and gradually changed their approach.

Another user recounted working with a former colleague who was approachable outside work but intimidating in a professional setting. The user said the colleague later acknowledged their micromanaging tendencies and apologised after feedback.

A separate response linked such behaviour to upbringing and workplace conditioning, suggesting that patterns observed in professional settings may reflect earlier environments. The user added that exposure to different management styles abroad had helped them develop a more balanced approach over time.

Additional users described instances of micromanagement and dismissal of feedback, with one noting that their concerns about errors were ignored, leading to issues later being escalated incorrectly.

Some users said they had become cautious about working under certain managers based on past experiences, while others reiterated that professionalism and mutual respect are essential in collaborative work environments.


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