We’ve all experienced it: we walk into a room and immediately sense the atmosphere. Sometimes it’s exhilarating—an upbeat vibe that energizes the team. However, other times, you can feel the weight of negativity pressing down, signaling a toxic culture. How do we overcome a toxic culture?  In this post I will outline a few key signs of toxicity and offer one powerful strategy for leaders to counteract it.

Signs of a Toxic Culture

One of the most apparent indicators of a toxic workplace is rampant gossip. I once spoke with a leader dealing with issues because employees would spend time complaining to one another or about others instead of directly dealing with the issue. This back-and-forth created a disturbing ripple effect throughout the organization. The solution? Set clear boundaries. Encourage your team to adopt the principle of addressing issues directly with the person involved, not behind their back. It sounds simple, but it’s easy to overlook. As leaders, cultivating a culture where people communicate openly and constructively helps prevent the emergence of toxic behaviors such as gossip.

Another noticeable sign of a toxic environment is pervasive negativity. While occasional criticism is inevitable and can even be healthy, a toxic culture saturates the atmosphere with constant complaints and negativity. As a leader, provide a safe platform for employees to voice their concerns. Whether a suggestion box, an email address dedicated to feedback, or an open forum for discussion, creating opportunities for team members to share their thoughts is crucial. However, remind them to focus on solutions by encouraging them to find the silver lining in every challenge. Remember, every difficult situation often holds hidden opportunities!

Excuse-making is another indicator. We’ve all heard it before: “I didn’t have enough information” or “the timing was off.” Excuse-making can become an insidious habit that undermines accountability. As a leader, it’s essential to hold your team accountable. Encourage them to take ownership of their responsibilities, as fostering a culture of accountability can steer your workplace away from toxicity, leading instead to problem-solving and collaboration.

Taking Out Toxicity

Now that we’ve covered the signs—gossip, negativity, and excuse-making—let’s focus on an effective countermeasure: keeping your team’s purpose clear. I saw this firsthand during training with an organization that thrived during 2020 due to the clarity of their mission. However, as time passed, the focus drifted, and complaints began to manifest. A well-defined purpose creates alignment and fosters a sense of belonging among team members, significantly reducing the likelihood of a toxic atmosphere.

Have you noticed any of these three toxic signs appearing on your team or in your organization?  If so, what will you do to address it.  When there is a lack of clear direction we are like boats in the wind . . . we drift.  Need help with clarity in your leadership?  Contact me for a powerful complimentary coaching session.  Lead well.

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