Most people feel they understand what a toxic work environment is, but the definition is quite broad and encompasses more issues than employees realize.
That’s why employees may not recognize that a situation at work is creating untenable problems. Here are a few strategies anyone can use to combat a hostile work environment.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
If workers must question what is a hostile work environment, they’re probably experiencing issues that make them uncomfortable.
The most common definition of a hostile work environment is any job where the people, general atmosphere, or the work itself causes one or more significant problems in workers’ lives.
Because the definition is so broad, many workers fail to recognize when they move beyond relatively everyday job-related stress into what can only be described as a hostile environment.
Anytime a workplace situation creates excessive stress or physical issues, question whether the job has reached a hostile level.
Symptoms of a Hostile Work Environment
Many employers take extraordinary steps to improve the workplace culture so that everyone feels welcome and cared about. However, others don’t. Workers who feel bullied or discriminated against in any way may be experiencing a hostile work environment.
Far too many employers or managers also consider micromanagement to be perfectly acceptable, and in some instances, it may be. However, when that practice is carried to an extreme, workers must evaluate the situation and take steps to eliminate it.
If employees frequently experience physical symptoms like headaches, stomach problems, and fatigue, health experts recommend determining if their work environment plays a role in those physical symptoms.
However, workers may also experience emotional issues like depression and anxiety that are related to their jobs. Excessive stress is also a common symptom of a toxic workplace environment.
When physical and emotional symptoms are present, workplace conditions may be the root cause of those issues.
Communicate With Management When Issues Develop
If an employee feels their workplace has crossed the line and become toxic, legal experts always recommend talking to management about the problem before taking other actions.
However, there are times when management is the problem, which means talking to them may not yield positive results. That doesn’t mean employees shouldn’t attempt to resolve the issue by discussing it with HR or a manager.
Document Everything
The next step in dealing with a hostile work environment is documenting everything. When problems occur, record the date, the people involved, and describe the situation.
When the environment doesn’t improve (or worsens), a detailed record of the events is crucial. Legal experts will need complete documentation of all events if legal action becomes necessary.
Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is also crucial. Set limits on work hours, take breaks at appropriate intervals, and avoid unnecessary contact with toxic coworkers.
There are other things to consider as well, so take action now. Accomplishing those objectives won’t always be easy, but they are a must for an employee’s physical and mental health.
Consider a Different Job
While that’s easy to say, not everyone has a lot of alternative job options. However, if conditions deteriorate and show no sign of improvement, consider taking whatever steps are necessary to get out of a toxic work environment.
Anyone who hasn’t already consulted an attorney for advice should certainly do so at this point. Legal experts will provide advice and help workers impacted by a toxic workplace evaluate their situation and determine how to proceed.
