Is Your Current Company Demanding or Toxic?

Some leaders are demanding, but in a good way. They expect a lot from their employees, but they expect more from themselves. They do not expect their employees to do anything they would not do. They also are loyal to their workers. These leaders look out for their employees and do all they can to support them.

Some leaders are demanding, but not in a good way. They see their employees only as a means to an end. They operate through fear and intimidation. They are not particularly trustworthy and show little loyalty to or respect for their workers.

The second type of leader results in a toxic work environment. Here are some other signs of a toxic workplace.

There is no concern about work-life balance.

Managers expect workers to be available even when not at work and when they are, to work long hours. Work-life balance is not a concern for the company leadership. All that matters is the company.

A lack of trust.

Managers do not trust their employees. They are constantly checking in with their staff to see what they are doing and whether they are on task. Managers simply assume they need to crack the whip to maintain productivity.

You cannot make a mistake.

Anyone who screws up gets chewed out ferociously. Management does not accept the fact that people can make mistakes, and anyone who does suffers harsh criticism and a loss of confidence.

As a result, the culture becomes one of blame-shifting, where everyone is concerned only about themselves and protecting their reputation. People are fearful of attempting anything new or taking a risk of any kind.

Communication suffers as well because employees are reluctant to inform managers of anything that might go awry. They don’t want to put themselves on the hot seat, and they know that managers don’t want to hear any bad news.

Managers have little respect for employees.

For example, a male supervisor who rolls his eyes at a female employee or ignores her suggestions while praising the same idea from a male employee is a prime example of a toxic work environment.

Little concern for employee development.

The company pays scant attention to employee growth and development. There is no coaching or mentoring. Supervisors do little to work with their staff on ways they can move ahead in their careers. Employees have to pretty much figure things out on their own.

Gaslighting.

Managers say they want one thing, then later change their minds about goals or procedures without consulting their staff.

Lack of engagement and high turnover.

These are two big red flags that warn of a toxic work environment. People are just going through the motions. They have no enthusiasm or energy for their job.

High turnover is another sign of a toxic environment. If you are interviewing for a job, and find that the company has a high turnover rate, you need to find out why before taking a job there.

Considering a new career?

At G.A. Rogers, we care about our job candidates, our results, and our relationships. We take the time to get to know each one of our candidates, enabling us to make better matches with employers. We treat our people with respect, and establish long-term relationships. Give us a call today to see what we can do for you.