Is your workplace toxic? Here are four signs to look out for

Most people quitting their jobs in what has become known as the Great Resignation, are doing so due to toxic work environments. A recent research by MIT Sloan Management Review, reveals that people are 10 times more likely to leave their jobs for this reason than salary issues. But how do you tell if your workplace is toxic? Here are some signs to keep in mind.

Constant gossip and drama

There’s nothing particularly wrong with a little office hearsay. In fact, in a 2010 study, 96% of respondents admitted to participating in office gossip. It becomes a problem when employees become overly engaged with the rumour mill. Gossiping can lead to a breakdown in communication, the formation of cliques and the spreading of falsehoods. All this can be emotionally tasking with constant arguments.

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A non-inclusive workplace

The MIT research analysed anonymous Glassdoor reviews of employees of their companies and found that most felt their offices are not fully welcoming of people from diverse backgrounds. The reviews suggest a lack of respect of racialized, disabled, queer people. According to the study:

Collectively, this cluster of topics is the most powerful predictor of whether employees view their organization’s culture as toxic.

Disrespect

Relatedly, another reason why employees feel their places of work impact their mental health and productivity is the lack of respect. A previous study conducted by the team found that:

…respect — or the lack thereof — was the single strongest predictor of how employees as a whole rated the corporate culture.

Feeling disrespected at work has the biggest influence on how employees rate the corporate culture where they work.

High turnover

A sure sign of a toxic workplace is its inability to retain employees. With so many people prioritizing their wellness and mental health, few people are willing to stay in a place that disrupts their peace. If you look around you and find employees are coming and going at a fast pace, the work culture may be to blame.

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