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We spend a significant part of our lives at work. It is therefore logical that we care about feeling as good as possible there. A healthy work environment should promote productivity, collaboration and a pleasant working atmosphere. But it's not always so rosy. Sometimes in the workplace we meet people who negatively affect other colleagues with their behavior. In this article we will look at how to recognize toxic people on workplace and how to deal with them effectively to maintain a healthy work environment.
What does workplace toxicity mean?
Toxicity in the workplace means the presence of people who, through their behavior and actions, negatively affect the work environment and the overall atmosphere. It can take many forms — from defamation, manipulation, conscious conflict generation, to harassment or bullying.
Whatever the form of toxicity, it is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Long-term overlooked toxic behavior can have fatal consequences for the entire team, whether in the form of reduced productivity, loss of morale, burnout, and even lead to health problems for some colleagues.
However, it does not have to be so black. These scenarios can be avoided, but the key step is people timely reveal. Recognizing these individuals allows others to take steps to minimize their influence on the team and thus prevent problems from escalating.
The key step is to detect toxic people early.
How to identify toxic people?
There are signs, we can say even warning signs that are typical of the behavior of toxic people.
· Toxic persons often express a negative attitude and criticism towards other colleagues and their ideas. They disparage the achievements of colleagues or unjustifiably take credit for results they have not achieved.
· They often use manipulative tactics to achieve their goals. This can be deception, spreading misinformation, polarizing, or gaining power and control over a situation.
· They are unsupportive and often avoid cooperation. They see no point in sharing knowledge or helping others and prioritize their own interests over team benefit.
· They often and consciously provoke conflicts and spread negative energy around them.
· They fail to take responsibility for their behavior. They make excuses, blame others and abuse information to their advantage.
However, it should be noted that similar behavior does not automatically mean that it is yours. colleague toxic person. In toxic people, as a rule, this behavior is repeated and sharpened. Therefore, be careful not to put in the “toxic person” box too quickly a colleague who is going through a difficult time in life or just having a bad day.
How to prevent toxic people from affecting your team?
Dealing with toxic individuals can be challenging, but it is essential to maintaining a healthy and safe work environment. Therefore, we have written down some tips that will help work efficiently with toxic people.
To maintain a safe working environment, it is essential to actively address the situation with toxic people.
Set clear boundaries
Make sure you keep your distance and set clear expectations and limitations with these people. Let them know what is and is not acceptable to you. Do not allow and do not let them control your emotions. This will avoid stress and keep a cool head even in difficult situations.
Don't let yourself be downloaded
It is not difficult for toxic people to draw others into their intrigues. Therefore, try not to react impulsively or aggressively, as this could make the situation worse. Maintain emotional stability so that toxic behavior does not affect you. Remember that provoking a negative reaction is exactly what toxic people are trying to achieve.
Communicate openly and constructively
If you or someone on your team feels uncomfortable or threatened around a particular person, get in touch. This is the best way to draw attention to a toxic person and at the same time protect yourself from its negative influence. But be careful that your confrontation is constructive and conducted with respect. Be patient and explain to them how their behavior affects you and other colleagues.
Look for solutions and options
If you decide to confront a toxic person, try directly suggesting a solution to improve the situation. It may be that by naming a situation to a toxic person, you open your eyes. But if a toxic person does not react to it, do not leave it that way. Communicate openly about it with team or leadership. Stand by yourself and remember that you are doing this to improve the work environment and the overall atmosphere at work. And that should be the case for every manager in to the firm.
