No workplace environment is perfect. But there’s a difference between work with a few flaws and a toxic work environment.
But a toxic work environment can be especially damaging. A toxic work environment can zap productivity and motivation and reduce employee retention. Not surprisingly, company leaders and managers have significant influence over workplace culture.
If you’re wondering if you have a toxic workplace, we can help. Here are a few signs of a toxic workplace. As you read, ask yourself if these traits fit your 9-5.
1. Poor communication
Communication is often one of the most significant issues for people in their personal and work environments. But business leaders should commit to communicating effectively and often to their employees. Unfortunately, however, some companies provide little information to their employees daily and weekly.
This lack of communication can wreak havoc on employees. It usually exists when rumors start to circulate about what’s happening in the company or a particular division or a leader. When people begin to speculate, it means no one is communicating enough or communicating effectively.
Employees should understand their company’s mission, their roles in their companies and where their company is headed. They also need to get constructive feedback.
2. Ineffective leadership
Another common sign of a toxic workspace is bad or ineffective leadership. Along with good communications, a good leader should guide their team, give feedback, delegate effectively and create a sense of unity among employees.
A good leader should also give compliments when earned and provide constructive feedback. They, too, should listen to employees and take criticism. If leaders are dismissive, narcissistic or act defensive, it can create an uncomfortable environment for everyone.
3. Favoritism
In a workplace, everyone deserves an equal opportunity to succeed. But if leaders have a clear bias or show favoritism, it can be toxic for the company.
Leaders can experience unconscious bias. For example, they may favor some employees over others for reasons other than pure achievement and dedication to their jobs. Unconscious gender or race bias is still common in workplaces.
As a business leader, it’s your job to ensure that employees aren’t under the impression that only a select few favorite employees are liked by management and get opportunities to advance.
4. Low morale
Employees can quickly sense a bad work environment. Sure, everyone can have a bad day and like to complain now and again. Still, if your coworkers are chronically disillusioned with work, cynical or generally unhappy, this could be a sign of something bigger.
Cliques in the workplace can also be a sign of low morale. Employees should have a sense of teamwork and community in their work. But poor work environments can cause conflict or unhealthy competition among employees. This can lead to a culture that thrives on office gossip and resentment.
5. Turnover rate
It’s common for people to leave their jobs for new opportunities, but high turnover can be bad for a company. If employees don’t feel respected or experience the characteristics above, they may decide to walk out and find better employment. This high turnover only creates more chaos and chaos within the work environment. Unfortunately, until the company’s culture changes, the turnover rate and toxic culture usually only worsen.
