A toxic workplace can have detrimental effects on not just employees but the entire company as well. Lower-quality work, decreased productivity, and employee dissatisfaction are some of the many consequences that can lead to staff turnover. As a leader, it is crucial to address signs of a toxic workplace as soon as they occur to prevent the cultivation of a negative company culture.
Experts from the Young Entrepreneur Council share their insights on the signs and solutions to break free from a toxic work environment. Inexplicable turnover can be the most obvious sign of a toxic work environment. To resolve the issue, business leaders should provide departing employees with the opportunity to speak freely during an exit interview.
Low transparency is another early sign of toxicity that could affect morale and increase turnover. Leaders should watch out for managers who withhold information, provide misleading information or use back channels to communicate with favored employees.
Gossip is another close ally of a toxic workplace, and its effects can be draining on morale and productivity. Leaders must catch and correct it early, as the causes could range from poor management to a weak vision, goals, or strategy.
Passive-aggressive behavior and verbal attacks from higher-ups are also signs of toxicity that managers must act swiftly upon. They must be aware of the well-being of employees to minimize the damage caused by a toxic work environment.
Low team morale, division among departments, and lack of responsibility among employees are other signs that a workplace may be becoming toxic. Other warning signs include the formation of cliques, an increasingly stressful work environment, difficulty working as a team, and favoritism.
To break free from a toxic work environment, business leaders must address these issues head-on before they spiral into more significant problems. Creating a safe space for employees to talk freely about their concerns and taking corrective action swiftly are primary steps toward building a positive company culture. Through inclusive and team-building exercises, business leaders can build a more collaborative work environment where employees feel seen, heard, and appreciated.