There is a clear distinction between someone who expresses complaints and someone who exhibits toxic behavior.
In many workplace TV dramas, there are characters who serve as rivals to the main protagonist. They might be portrayed as incompetent workers, boastful about their achievements, or simply unpleasant individuals. While these characters create drama or comedic relief on television, such toxic coworkers can create a significantly unpleasant work environment in real life. It is not uncommon for people to leave good jobs because of toxic colleagues. Whether you are a manager or an observer, it is essential to be aware of toxic behaviors to address them promptly.
One prevalent toxic behavior in workplaces is an insatiable need for recognition. Some individuals, driven by the desire to outshine others, resort to ruthless tactics. This behavior is often fueled by moral superiority, where individuals believe they are always right and entitled to act however they please.
Another indicator of toxicity is a lack of empathy towards coworkers and clients. While personal experiences can sometimes diminish compassion, a complete absence of empathy can lead to bullying or harassment in the workplace. For individuals with this mindset, disregarding others’ feelings comes naturally.
Eliminating toxic behavior from the workplace requires more than just identification. Once identified, the employee must be made aware that their conduct is unacceptable, and they must be given the choice to improve or seek opportunities elsewhere.
