Toxic Employees

Happy Friday,

In the context of an organization, a toxic person is someone whose behavior, attitude, or actions consistently undermine the productivity, morale, and effectiveness of the workplace. 

Toxic employees can demotivate, torpedo morale, damage the culture, reputation, and brand, impact retention and recruitment, and create legal liability and compliance issues, among other negatives. Maybe you know one.

Unfortunately, though, it’s rarely that cut and dry, especially given today's greatly heightened level of intolerance. So, ask around to be sure the perception of toxicity is shared among at least a few level-headed people you trust.

A few things to consider here: First, nobody’s life is as rosy as we all assume. Everyone has personal challenges that could potentially be the source of toxic behavior. Yet most people, even those with significant personal challenges, manage to be self-aware and considerate enough not to manifest their issues at work. There's a duty to these people first.

Second, it's very (very) difficult to change people. Don't expect to do it.

Third, it’s not an organization's job to try to fix people. While magnanimously trying to turn someone around, the damage they cause continues. That’s not fair to everyone else.

Problematic people occupy too much precious mindshare. Plus, they raise everyone’s background stress levels, which can make good people hate their job. If a toxic person can’t or won’t recognize their issue and immediately remedy it, don't drag it out. Cut your losses and let a competitor have them.

All tough decisions quickly return to a leader's responsibility to do what's best for the mother ship and the greater good of those who care the most and work the hardest. Dismissing a toxic employee is a strategic decision to safeguard the organization’s culture, performance, reputation, and long-term success. If your gut tells you yes, then rip the bandaid off. Life's too short.

Have a nice weekend!

Dave

Feedback and blowback are always welcome here: dave@goodnewsfriday.com

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Written by me, not ChatGPT: valuable speed assist and blunder avoidance by Grammarly