[LETTER] These are the signs of a toxic workplace environment

'Look around the office. Is anyone happy to be working there? Is anyone smiling?'

Madam – Workplace signs of a toxic environment:

Employee Sickness: 
Toxic workplaces lead to employee burnout, fatigue and illness due to high levels of stress that wreak havoc on our bodies. If people are calling in sick or worse, are working sick, that’s a good sign of a toxic work environment.

Narcissistic Leadership: 
Your higher-ups demand that you always agree with them, tell them they’re right, and feel they’re above the rules. They expect everyone else to be perfect while they can meet lower standards.

Little to No Enthusiasm: 
Look around the office. Is anyone happy to be working there? Is anyone smiling? Are conversations positive and upbeat? Is anyone talking at all? A “no” to these questions equals toxicity.

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Lack of Communication or Negative Communication:
You and others don’t get the necessary information to do your job. You work hard with no positive feedback and no recognition, and you might even be told to be glad you have a job at all.

High Turnover: 
When the work environment has nothing good to offer except dysfunction, poor morale, and sickness, people will start heading for the door to find a better situation.
If you notice a high turnover rate in your company or department, take that as a sign of toxic workplace.

Cliques, Gossip, and Rumours: 
Everyone seems to be out for themselves and there are no genuine friendships among employees. There’s lots of infighting and paranoia as well as gossip and rumours.

Marina Smal

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