Workforce toxicity is contagious. No matter how it begins, when it begins, or who it initially starts with first, it can quickly spiral and become detrimental to all personnel within your organization, regardless of their title or position. This negative type of working environment can be caused by a variety of factors. To list a few:
- A hostile or abusive superior
- Hostile or out-of-control co-workers/team members
- An overbearing workload
- Unrealistic workload expectations
- Lack of support and/or recognition from your organization
- Poor or non-existent communication levels
- A culture ran by an iron fist (fear)
- Workplace bullying
Though many of these factors can be easily recognized by yourself and others, there may be the possibility that these factors are suppressed when personnel are present. This means only a select few (a very select few) people are witness to the type of toxicity that has causes a disruption within the workplace.
Toxicity in the workplace can have a lasting negative impact over several aspects. These can include:
- Significantly higher turnover rates
- Low or extremely low employee morale
- Ongoing and frequent conflicts that arise, likely among team members
- Total lack of transparency and trust
- Increased stress, anxiety, and depression among personnel
The looming fear of being consumed by a toxic work environment is an issue employee often dread. The idea that a workplace can succumb to the negative effects and cause a rise in disruption sends anxiety trickling through the veins of even the most optimistic employees. Being present in a toxic workplace can lead to serious negative effects to be present on employee’s mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. It can impact both personal and professional lives.
As this quickly becomes the current situation, it is critical to take a step back, address the situation, and seek help and support from your leadership team or your human resource (HR) department. In the instance that neither of those outs prove to aid you in promoting a healthier work environment, then it is time to take steps remove yourself from the situation and see a healthier (new) workplace.
Harmful Effects: Emotional
A toxic job can be emotionally harmful to employees in countless ways.
An employee who is the subject of workplace bullying or harassment from colleagues or leaders can cause emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, this can lead to a lack of support of support from their environment. Feelings of isolation, frustration, and helplessness may present itself in employees who experience this. This is especially true and troublesome when employees have a project or are facing a difficult task.
When a manager lacks the skills to effectively lead their team, it can lead to poor communication, unclear expectations, and a lack of direction. This can cause employees to feel overly stressed, anxious, and demotivated. Long working hours to complete high volumes of work can lead to employee burnout, exhaustion, and overwhelming feelings.
Employees who feel under-represented or lack being challenged can result in feelings of stagnation and unfulfillment. This is due to a lack of opportunities for growth.
Each of these factors can contribute to negativity but having multiple of these factors at place can contribute to an emotionally harmful working environment. Through these, it is important for employees to host the ability to recognize these signs and have the strength to take steps to address them.
Harmful Effects: Physical
A job can be physically harmful to workplace personnel in a number of ways.
Workers who reside in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or healthcare may be exposed to dangerous chemicals or substances that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, or other health issues. Jobs that require repetitive motions, such as typing or assembly line work, can cause repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or bursitis. Work environments that require heavy lifting, such as construction or warehouse work, can cause physical strain on the back, neck, and shoulders, leading to chronic pain and injuries.
Workplaces that require high levels of stress, such as emergency responders or healthcare workers, can turn to physical health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and other stress-related illnesses. Working environments which require employees to sit for extended periods of time or working with blue screens, such as computers can result in poor posture, eyestrain, and additional ergonomic-related injuries. This especially occurs when the workplace is not set up properly.
It’s important for individuals to be aware of the physical risks associated with their job and take steps to minimize them. This will keep the toxicity level to a bare minimum. This may involve using protective equipment, taking breaks to stretch and move around, seeking medical attention for injuries, or looking for a new job in a safer work environment.
Being present in a toxic workplace can negatively affect your well-being. If you have attempted other avenues with little to no success, then it is time for you to remove yourself from the situation. The following steps can prove crucial to helping you leave.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before making any decisions, it’s important to evaluate current one. This can help you determine if leaving the job is the best solution. Ask yourself why the job is toxic and if there are any steps you can take to improve the situation, such as addressing concerns with your supervisor or HR department.
Step 2: Build a Support System
Leaving a toxic job can be challenging, so it’s imperative to have a support system in place. Reach out to friends, family, or co-workers that you trust. Consider seeking the help of a therapist or career counselor.
Step 3: Plan Your Departure
If you have decided to leave your toxic work environment, it’s important to plot your exit strategy. This may involve revising your resume, building your professional network, and lining up job interviews.
Step 4: Give Appropriate Notice
When you are ready to leave your job, give your employer sufficient notice and follow the proper protocol for resigning. This will help you leave on good terms and maintain a positive professional reputation.
Step 5: Tie Up Loose Ends
Before you leave, make sure to complete any unresolved tasks or projects. Tie up loose ends. This will help ensure a smooth transition for your employer and colleagues.
Step 6: Take Care of Yourself
Leaving a toxic job can be stressful and emotionally draining, so it’s important to take care of yourself during this transition. Ensure you make time for self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
Step 7: Start Your Job Search
Once you have left your toxic job, it’s time to focus on your future career. Start your job search by networking, updating your resume and cover letter, and applying to job postings that align with your career goals.
Closing Thoughts
A toxic job can be stressful and challenging. Its affects can last over time. Leaving your toxic job can prove to be a necessary step to your wellbeing, career growth, and to get back to a normal state of mind. But taking the necessary steps to remove yourself is an action that will help you towards a healthier and more fulfilling career.
