By: Steff Willis
We spend a huge part of our lives at work, so we would hope that it would be an enjoyable experience, working alongside colleagues that we get along with.
But what happens when the culture in the workplace is less than enjoyable? Worse still, what should we do if we find ourselves in a toxic workplace?
We chatted with Margit Mansfield, CEO of Keogh Consulting and a passionate leader in the areas of organisational transformation, change management and culture development, to learn more about how to handle a toxic workplace culture.
“There are cultures that are dysfunctional… and then there’s the other extreme, which is toxic” Margit said.
“That’s a pretty harsh word. I think sometimes people use that term quite loosely because they might be unhappy or there’s certain elements of the culture that aren’t quite working… it’s not necessarily toxic”.
Toxicity encompasses behaviors like bullying, harassment, and overwork, leading to a significantly negative impact on employees.
Conversely, a dysfunctional workplace might have systems that don’t work optimally but lack the harmful aggression of toxicity.
“I’ve been in organisations which have been really the opposite [of toxic] on the surface” Margit said.
“You know, friendly people, they invest a lot of money in training people, the offices are great… but often they might have leaders who aren’t prepared to delegate properly.”
“People aren’t being necessarily being disrespected or bullied or harassed. It’s just you’re not getting the best out of your people.”
How to Improve the Culture in your Workplace
Leaders play a critical role in shaping office culture.
Margit emphasises that leaders must be consistent and transparent, adhering to promises and cultivating healthy ways of working some rituals within their teams.
“The one thing that’s really easy to do and doesn’t cost any money is recognition. It’s one of the biggest levers for a positive culture and recognition.
“I don’t mean paying anybody a bonus. It’s saying you did a great job and this is the impact you made on the organisation.”
While leaders have a significant impact, employees can also influence the workplace atmosphere.
“I would try and have some respectful conversations about what your limits are. ?Confirming with your leader about what the expectations are.
“Often, unhealthy cultures or people who feel the culture is unhealthy, they’re unclear about what’s expected of them.” Margit Mansfield, CEO of Keogh Consulting
Moreover, building a support network within the organisation, finding like-minded peers, and avoiding office gossip can improve the daily work experience.
“It’s people who are positive and can be your support group.”
Article supplied with thanks to 96five.
Feature image: Photo by Resume Genius on Unsplash