Is this considered a threat

I had my annual performance review last week and the team leader told me that if I do not reach the next level by next year then it means I have not met expectations - this is an indirect reference to the rating he will be giving me next year. I personally feel this is a threat
Would you consider this a subtle threat?
Also month after month in 2026 it has only been criticism and negative comments from him. He does not have 1 positive thing to say. Highly demotivating and it is taking a toll on my mental health

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AmericanAvenger · M

I have been there. He doesn't want you anymore and he is setting you up to be terminated. I would work on getting away from him immediately - either another position with your employer or another employer. If you were in your 20s, I would say what someone else said here: work on it. But you are probably experienced enough to know your job and your industry. You are right in saying it takes a toll on your mental health. Save as much of it as you can by getting a better situation for yourself. I didnt do that and now I am burned out and to young to retire.

Don't end up like me in your 60s looking for a job. Don't let him get you down and start hustling for something new that you deserve.

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AmericanAvenger · M

@solitaire I meant try to get transferred to another job at your company - away from your manager. If not, find a new job elsewhere and save yourself.

solitaire · 41-45, F

@AmericanAvenger Got it. Manager is a level above the team leader: there have been instances where people have asked for change of team leader and their request has been granted. But sometimes I wonder how this guy has survived for years because I've heard about things he has said to people. But no one speaks up out of fear

AmericanAvenger · M

@solitaire If it is like that around there, I would bail. Jobs numbers in the country are good now. Depending on your field, you could probably get some leads on something else. Decide if you are going to do it ASAP. You are right at the age where ageism begins in the job market. I was laid off when I was your age and I was never able to recover completely.

AdmiralPrune · 46-50, M

I would questions if the expectations they have set for you are realistic and reasonable. It is a two way conversation. Go prepared with done questions for them.

solitaire · 41-45, F

@AdmiralPrune There are many in the organization who are in the same boat as me. But they work under other team leaders and the message has not been conveyed so harshly. I feel he is targeting me

Atari2678 · 41-45, M

Well dah , work on it

GerOttman · 70-79, M

I'd say keep your options open. Are you meeting your own expectations? Highly qualified employees tend to be harder to find than half a33ed managers. If you're not the problem maybe he is. Having worked for less than inspirational leaders before, my advice is don't be the last one out the door! Has the exodus already started??

solitaire · 41-45, F

@GerOttman I'm finding his leadership style very difficult to adjust to. I have worked under 4 other team leaders in the past and have not faced such issues

SW-User

Sounds like most team leaders and managers on their whimpy little power trips.

solitaire · 41-45, F

This guy is one of the worst I've come across.

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