**Inside Meghan Markle's Controversial Work Style: Employees Share Mixed Stories**

Meghan Markle recently found herself at the center of a controversy following a scathing exposé in the Hollywood Reporter. Accusations from a former employee described the Duchess as a "dictator in high heels," casting a shadow over her professional demeanor. However, a different narrative has emerged as current and former employees have spoken out in her defense, offering a starkly contrasting perspective on Markle’s leadership style.

In conversations with US Weekly, five employees stepped forward to share their experiences, painting Markle, 43, as "supportive" and "solution-oriented." They revealed that although the Duchess would send emails as early as 5 a.m., she made it clear that immediate responses were not necessary, recognizing that her work schedule might not align with theirs. This approach aimed to respect her team's work-life balance, demonstrating her efforts to be a considerate boss.

One former staff member commended Markle for her inclusive leadership, noting that she ensured her team received appropriate credit for their ideas and hard work. For instance, after significant projects or trips, Markle would send personal emails to each employee, acknowledging their contributions. Ben Browning, former head of content at Archewell, echoed these sentiments, describing the work environment fostered by Markle and Prince Harry, 40, as "positive and supportive."

An anonymous current employee further dispelled the negative claims, stating they had "never" heard Markle yell and emphasized her clarity and solution-focused direction. This employee passionately defended the Duchess, asserting that criticisms aimed at Markle were unfounded and that the team was united in their mission to do good.

In stark contrast to these defenses, the original Hollywood Reporter piece included severe accusations, portraying Markle as demeaning and overly demanding. One source claimed that staff were "terrified" of her, with allegations of her reducing grown men to tears and frequently changing her decisions on a whim. Moreover, Markle and Harry’s frequent personnel changes, such as their top aide’s departure in 2021 and their chief of staff’s resignation after just three months, have added fuel to the fire.

Compounding the controversy, a report from the Daily Beast accused Markle of being a "demon" who allegedly mistreated former employees during her time as a working royal in the UK. One insider, who reportedly observed Markle's behavior, claimed staff were often "chewed up" and made to feel worthless, mentioning the incredibly tense atmosphere during those times.

A second source, reflecting on their experience working with Markle around her 2018 wedding, labeled her a "narcissist," further suggesting that the efforts by Markle’s team to speak out in her favor only reinforced this view. These insiders painted a picture of a demanding and difficult boss, with one instance involving a florist allegedly being berated for half an hour over a minor online post.

These conflicting accounts underscore the complexity of Meghan Markle’s public and professional image, leaving observers to question where the truth truly lies.