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From a distance, it might seem that a toxic culture is a result of other factors. You may blame your team, people in the hierarchy, or even the lower management. However, sometimes, leaders contribute significantly to the toxic workplace too.
If you are a leader and looking to self-reflect, here are some things to look out for.
1. Demanding Results at All Costs
It is good to promote consistency and determination in your team members. However, human beings are not machines, and should not be treated that way. Leaders who are unforgiving and lack any compassion will demand performance at all times.
They will not be tolerant or understanding of individual concerns and will prioritize good results, even at the cost of their employee’s mental health.
This can also look like leaders giving very strict and unrealistic deadlines to their employees. Having high expectations is one thing, but targeting them for not meeting those unrealistically high deadlines can be counterintuitive to good performance.
2. Leading by Intimidation and Inducing Fear in Employees
One of the worst things leaders can do is act aloof from their team members. They can act so distant and unapproachable that their team members start fearing them. They also intimidate their employees to get work done. This is a failed strategy as it only garners short-term results.
The above behavior not only draws productivity down but also contributes to a very toxic environment in the office. Employees complete tasks with less honesty and under the fear of the boss’s wrath.
Moreover, this behavior also prevents them from approaching leaders with any questions or queries; all of which reduces the quality of work.
3. Making People Feel Disposable and Undervalued
In any workplace, there are always replaceable employees. There may be thousands of other candidates that can do the same job, even better, sometimes. However, once leaders have decided to hire someone, they should stick to their choices and not make their employees feel inferior.
In most office places, leaders don’t validate or encourage the contributions of their employees, making the latter feel unappreciated. Apart from harming their self-esteem, this can also create a negative atmosphere in the office: an atmosphere filled with people unwilling to put their best into their work.
4. Hanging Out With Toxic Individuals
Sometimes leaders are not in a position to fire someone immediately. However, leaders can still distance themselves from problematic individuals. When they refuse to do the latter, it makes other employees put leaders and problematic individuals in the same category.
The above can lead employees to lose trust in the integrity and leadership skills of their leader. Separating oneself from toxic individuals sends a clear message that the said behavior is unacceptable and not tolerated.
5. Always Preferring Revenue to the Well-Being of Employees
Leaders care about revenue and results, and rightfully so, too. It is the job of the leaders to make a good reputation for the company. However, leaders who have unrealistic expectations from their team end up contributing to toxicity. They reject the well-being and mental health of their employees, simply to get better results.
Conclusion
From a distance, a toxic environment may not seem like a big problem. You may ignore it, thinking it only impacts a couple of individuals. However, in the long run, a toxic workplace can reduce the overall productivity of an office and make employees lose interest in their jobs.
It is hence up to the leaders to take the lead and help fix the situation. From making sound policies to bringing everyone on board, there are a number of things leaders can do to turn the tables.
What are the next steps you can take? Sign up for this Strategic Leadership & Management Course and become an exemplary leader who creates and encourages a positive working environment for all.
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