It is important for your workplace environment to be healthy. The culture at your job not only affects your happiness and productivity, but it may also be illegal. Discrimination, harassment and unpaid wages are all examples of unlawful employment practices.
How can you know for sure if your workplace is toxic? Here are some red flags that you work in a negative environment.
Poor communication
Do you feel like you are not getting enough feedback and information? When you finally hear from higher-ups, is it always negative? A lack of communication can lead to confusion and feeling left out.
Consistent drama
Every workplace has some disputes and cliques. If the drama never seems to end, there is something wrong. You should never feel paranoid or anxious about someone talking behind your back. If rumors, gossip, favoritism, misunderstanding and infighting are commonplace, your job is emotionally unhealthy.
Tyrannical boss
If your boss tries to control everything you do and is quick to ridicule you when you mess up, you may be working for a tyrant. A boss like this always feels like his or her way is the only way and never listens to others. Your boss may even expect you to come to work even when you are severely sick or injured.
Health issues
Toxic workplaces are full of stress. Over time, this results in various physical and mental health complications, such as fatigue, depression and anxiety. You may see more sick days, staff turnovers and disability claims.
Dysfunction is the norm
An ideal workplace should run smoothly. Do you notice company operations failing? Are your meetings a waste of time? Disorganization and a lack of focus are all signs of a dysfunctional workplace, and that is usually because of poor leadership.
If you constantly face problems at your job, it may be time to consider whether you have the basis to file a claim about discrimination, harassment or wage and hour issues.