Is toxicity breeding in your workforce? Here are the signs to look out for and how to manage it

As a busy employer, it’s understandable that the demands of your job may lead to you missing a few vital signs that indicate that your workplace has become toxic. In fact, a 2022 report revealed that a toxic work environment was the most common reason people left their jobs during the post-Covid Great Resignation. 

People often advise employees about how to spot the signs, but it’s the employer who has the power to create positive change and build a happy, healthy workplace. There’s a test to determine whether you have a healthy work environment, but otherwise, look out for these warning signs that may indicate an unhealthy workplace culture.

Poor working relationships

One of the benefits of working in a team is the relationships you form and life-long friends you make. Having a catch-up over a coffee is a perk, but it becomes unhealthy when chat turns to gossip. This can lead to feelings of isolation and discrimination for those affected and create team divisions. 

To avoid gossip, schedule regular one-on-one time with employees to assess their feelings towards other team members. This will help you pick up on any animosity or potential fallout. Work with people to find better ways of operating so that everyone's needs are met. If there’s someone who is particularly negative towards others or the organisation, it could be a sign they're unhappy with their job. In this case, find out how to help them reach their work goals. They may need extra training and development or a more challenging project.

Low team morale

There are many reasons why an organisation may suffer from low morale. Low retention, reduced communication and a lack of job security can lead to mistrust and poor motivation. 

To prevent this, put open, transparent communication at the core of your organisation. Make people feel secure in their roles by discussing plans for the future that involve them. Create a sense of belonging and inclusion by including the whole team in brainstorming sessions, where everyone's ideas are heard and incorporated into the business strategy. Create a sense of pride within your team because the success of your organisation is a reflection of its people.

The formation of silos

It’s easy for teams to naturally segregate into silos. This usually involves people working in the same department or in similar roles. Silos can create tension within groups and isolate people.

To prevent this, bring departments together and engage them in social activities, like a team lunch, bonding day or sports tournament. Instigate a breakout session, allowing people from different departments and teams to collaborate and get to know one another. Reward employees who demonstrate and work by the organisation’s core values.

Silos can also be avoided by shaking up your office space. Mix up departments when possible, or merge two together. Have hot desks and open spaces to accommodate groups for informal meetings.

An increase in sick days

If you notice that someone is taking frequent sick days, they may be feeling the effects of a toxic work environment. According to leadership coach Lisa Quinn, people regularly experience physical symptoms of work stress. She explains that our brains are constantly scanning for threats, and being in fight-or-flight mode for a long period of time can affect your long-term physical health. Common symptoms include depression, anxiety, fatigue, panic attacks and sleep problems.

Touch base with people you are concerned about, and offer a safe space to discuss any worries or issues. Offering support and trust will help people feel confident talking about work issues and will improve their perception of your employer brand.

Final thoughts

Employers don’t want an unhealthy workplace culture. There’s nothing to gain and everything to lose. Toxic workplaces can lead to lower standards, decreased productivity and unhappy employees. This ultimately results in a loss of retention, which can cause low morale within the team and deter new talent. Creating a healthy workplace culture will shape your employer brand and highlight a greater employee experience.

To avoid a toxic work environment, the most important thing is to maintain regular, open communication with your people. Find out what they need to make your organisation a better place to work. Bring ideas together, and try new ways of working that will help solidify the team and create a happy, healthy work environment.