A toxic workplace is an unhealthy work environment. There is no balance between leadership, employee relationships, appreciation and recognition, and career ladder. Professionalism in work is put aside, while personal or group interests are prioritized.
A toxic work environment can have a negative impact. Not only for the company but also for the people who work in it. Worse, a toxic work environment can trigger various mental health problems, such as burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Recognize the Toxic Workplace
A bad work environment has several characteristics. As an employee, you must know the characteristics so you don’t get trapped. The following are the characteristics.
1. Unhealthy Work Culture
An unhealthy work culture includes excessive competition, favoritism, and an overly rigid hierarchical structure. In this condition, employees often feel they have to compete unfairly to get promotions or recognition.
If favoritism occurs, a sense of injustice and insecurity will arise among employees. An environment like this can reduce motivation and create a stressful work atmosphere.
2. No Opportunity to Develop
Companies should support employees in developing their skills, experience, networks, and careers. This support can be in the form of training, job promotions, or salary increases based on work performance.
Initially, it may be awkward to ask your boss directly. However, you can observe older coworkers to see the development opportunities available.
If there are no self-improvement facilities, consider looking for another, healthier company. A work environment that does not support development can be a sign of a toxic workplace.
3. Unsuitable Workload
Unsuitable workload can be a sign of a toxic workplace. According to the Instagram account @bangunkarir.idn, an inappropriate workload is a condition where there is too much work outside the job description. Employees get too much work, even having to complete other people’s work. When working, you should not be calculating. However, if the work given is too excessive, it is a good idea to immediately consider the workplace.
4. Unbalanced Workload and Hours
Employees who still often receive tasks on weekends without clarity can be a danger sign. If there is no weekend work agreement in the contract, they should not be required to work at that time.
Working outside official working hours must be counted as overtime according to government regulations. If overtime is not paid, it means that the company has violated the basic rights of its employees. This imbalance can hurt mental and physical health.
5. Bad Leadership
Bad leaders can be recognized by their behavior and attitude towards the team. For example, being selfish, rejecting change, not being open to criticism, and getting angry for no reason.
Leaders like this cannot be role models and only add to work pressure. Without healthy leadership, team performance will decline and the work atmosphere will be unconducive.
Toxic workplaces must be avoided. Don’t get caught up in it because it has an impact on mental health. Everyone has the right to get an appreciation for their hard work. Therefore, I want to work in a professional place for career success and the future. /endah
