Steps to deal with toxic coworkers never looked so good.
It’s entirely possible to become successful while dealing with toxic coworkers, which is where an effective 8-step strategy comes in.
These basic eight steps — evaluate the situation, set boundaries, limit interactions, don’t retaliate, and more — are the foundation of any effective approach. We packaged our tried-and-tested intervention for you to deal with toxic coworkers at work.
Let’s start with the basics.
We all know that dealing with toxic coworkers can be challenging. Our experts report that these negative attitudes and behaviors can have a detrimental impact on the overall workplace.
This guide provides helpful tips and strategies for handling difficult coworkers professionally and constructively.
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What are Toxic Coworkers?
Toxic coworkers exhibit harmful attitudes and behaviors that are counterproductive to a positive work environment.
Some common traits include:
- Spreading negativity and gossip.
- Acting arrogant and entitled.
- Not collaborating or supporting teammates.
- Undermining others’ work and contributions.
- Displaying passive-aggressive behaviors.
- Taking credit for others’ work.
- Refusing to accept responsibility for mistakes.
Background on Toxic Coworkers
Several factors can contribute to someone developing toxic behaviors at work. Some potential reasons include:
- Feeling insecure or threatened by coworkers.
- Having an inflated ego or sense of superiority.
- Struggling with mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
- Experiencing high stress and burnout.
- Having poor communication and conflict resolution skills.
Regardless of the reasons, toxic coworkers can lower morale, reduce productivity, and create a dysfunctional culture.
Learning to mitigate their harmful impact is crucial for a positive workplace.
Impact of Toxic Coworkers
Toxic coworkers affect not only individuals but also the organization as a whole. Some consequences include:
For individuals:
- Increased stress and anxiety.
- Lower self-esteem and confidence.
- Feeling excluded and isolated.
- Dreading going to work each day.
For organizations:
- High turnover and loss of talent.
- Poor communication and collaboration.
- Lack of trust and team cohesion.
- Reduced productivity and performance.
- Damaged company culture and reputation.
8 Steps for Dealing with Toxic Coworkers
If you have a toxic coworker, here are some tips for handling them effectively:
1. Evaluate the situation – Objectively assess their behaviors and your relationship. Consider if you have done anything to provoke them.
2. Set boundaries – Clear your limits about what behaviors you will not tolerate. Be professional yet firm.
3. Limit interactions – Reduce contact with the person and avoid unnecessary conversations. Keep communications focused on work.
4. Don’t retaliate – As frustrating as it can be, avoid stooping to their level. Take the high road and kill them with kindness.
5. Build a support system – Vent to trusted coworkers, friends and family to manage your emotions. Seek advice on coping.
6. Document everything – Keep records of incidents, inappropriate remarks, emails, etc. This creates a paper trail if things escalate.
7. Communicate issues – Respectfully address problems with the coworker first. If no improvement, involve your manager or HR.
8. Stay positive – Focus on the aspects of work you can control. Don’t let colleagues bring down your self-worth.
Potential Challenges
Trying to deal with difficult coworkers has its obstacles. Some issues that may arise include:
- The toxic person becomes defensive and lashes out when confronted.
- Management is unaware of or downplaying the problems.
- Your other colleagues remain silent rather than speaking up.
- You feel anxious about reporting the coworker due to fear of retaliation.
Despite these challenges, it’s important to persist in speaking up about toxic behaviors. The situation is unlikely to improve otherwise.
Conclusion
Having toxic coworkers can make work life miserable. While you cannot control their attitudes and actions, you can control how you respond.
With professionalism, resilience and support, you can mitigate the damage caused by their dysfunction.
The tips in this guide can help you better cope and thrive in your job despite the complex relationships.
We encourage you to explore our frequently asked questions, special offers, and our ready-made training course material.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.