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We spend a significant part of our lives at work. So it makes sense that we want to feel as comfortable as possible. A healthy work environment should promote productivity, collaboration and a pleasant working atmosphere. However, it's not always so rosy. Sometimes we encounter people in the workplace whose behaviour negatively affects other colleagues. In this article, we'll look at how to spot toxic people in the workplace and how to deal with them effectively to maintain a healthy work environment.
What does toxicity in the workplace mean?
Toxicity in the workplace means the presence of people whose behaviour and actions negatively affect the work environment and the overall atmosphere. It can take many forms - from gossip, manipulation, deliberate conflict creation to harassment or bullying.
Whatever form toxicity takes, it is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Long-term overlooked toxic behaviour can have fatal consequences for the entire team, whether in the form of reduced productivity, loss of morale, burnout, or even leading to health problems for some colleagues.
But it doesn't have to be so black. These scenarios can be avoided, but the key is to identify these people early. Recognizing these individuals allows others to take steps to minimize their impact on the team and prevent problems from escalating.
The key is to detect toxic people early.
How to identify toxic people?
There are signs, we can even say warning signs, that are typical of the behaviour of toxic people.
- Toxic people often express negative attitudes and criticism towards other colleagues and their ideas. They belittle colleagues' achievements or take undue credit for results they have not achieved.
- They often use manipulative tactics to achieve their goals. This may involve deception, spreading misinformation, polarising or gaining power and control over a situation.
- They are unsupportive and often avoid cooperation. They do not see the point in sharing knowledge or helping others and put their own interests ahead of the team's benefit.
- They often and deliberately create conflict and spread negative energy around them.
- They cannot take responsibility for their behaviour. They make excuses, blame others and use information to their advantage.
However, it should be added that such behaviour does not automatically mean that your colleague is a toxic person. In toxic people, this behaviour is usually repeated and exacerbated. So be careful not to be too quick to put a colleague who is going through a difficult time in life or just having a bad day into the "toxic person" box.
How to prevent toxic people from influencing your team?
Dealing with toxic individuals can be challenging, but it is essential to maintaining a healthy and safe work environment. So we've put together some tips to help you work effectively with toxic people.
To maintain a safe work environment, it is essential to proactively address the situation with toxic people.
Set clear boundaries
Make sure you keep your distance and set clear expectations and limits with these people. Let them know what is and is not acceptable to you. Don't enable or let them control your emotions. This will help you avoid stress and keep your cool even in difficult situations.
Don't let yourself be dragged down
It's not hard for toxic people to draw others into their schemes. So try not to react impulsively or aggressively, as this could make the situation worse. Maintain emotional stability so that toxic behaviour doesn't affect you. Remember that provoking a negative reaction is exactly what toxic people are trying to achieve.
Communicate openly and constructively
If you or someone on your team feels uncomfortable or unsafe around a particular person, speak up. It's the best way to bring a toxic person to your attention while protecting yourself from their negative influence. But make sure your confrontation is constructive and respectful. Be patient and explain how their behaviour affects you and other colleagues.
Look for solutions and opportunities
If you decide to confront the toxic person, try to immediately suggest solutions to improve the situation. It may be that naming the situation will open the toxic person's eyes. But if the toxic person doesn't respond, don't let it go. Communicate openly with the team or management about it. Stand your ground and remember that you are doing this to improve the work environment and overall atmosphere at work. That's what every manager in the company should be about.
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