'Nobody wants to hire a...': Walmart HR boss reveals one big red flag that could keep you jobless

Donna Morris, the Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at Walmart, has said that workplace negativity is a key red flag that can damage trust and stall an employee’s career. She made the remarks during an interview with CNBC Make It, drawing attention to the importance of proactive behaviour in the workplace.

Morris, who oversees the experience of over 2 million Walmart employees, warned employers to be cautious of workers who only highlight problems but never suggest solutions. “Nobody wants [to hire] a Debbie Downer,” she said. “They’re constantly negative… they bring the problem, never the solution.”

Focus on solutions, not just problems

The term “Debbie Downer,” according to Morris, refers to employees who are not only pessimistic but also block progress. These individuals tend to reject ideas, avoid change, and discourage others from exploring new paths.


She said this type of behaviour can affect team dynamics, lower morale, and prevent professional advancement. Her remarks reflect a broader corporate focus on teamwork and constructive engagement.

Avoid toxic positivity, but don’t stay stuck in negativity

While highlighting the risks of consistent negativity, Morris also pointed out that extreme optimism is not ideal either. “It’s unnatural and unrealistic for someone to be happy all the time,” she said. Instead, she advised employees to assess whether their current job or organisation is the right fit if they constantly feel dissatisfied.

What companies value instead

Morris shared examples of behaviours that companies look for in potential and current employees. “You’re better to deliver early than to deliver late, and you’re better to deliver more than less,” she said.

She said employees who show initiative, take on more work when needed, and ask for help early when facing challenges are often viewed positively. “Another green flag is they’re open to opportunities, and they put their hand up to take on more.... Or they bring a problem with the remedy or request help in a timely manner, as opposed to the house is on fire.”

Morris joined Walmart in 2020 after spending nearly 20 years in senior roles at Adobe.