Handling a toxic manager

DEALING with a toxic manager can be an incredibly challenging and stressful experience.

A toxic manager creates a negative work environment through their behaviour, such as being overly critical, micromanaging, or displaying favouritism.

However, there are strategies you can employ to navigate this difficult situation and protect your well-being. In this article, we will explore some effective ways to handle a toxic manager.

Recognising the signs of a toxic manager is crucial to address the situation effectively.

Some common signs, include excessive criticism and a lack of constructive feedback, micro-management and trust in your abilities, favouritism towards certain employees, and ineffective communication.

Additionally, toxic managers often fail to provide necessary support and resources, undermine your efforts, or set unrealistic expectations that cause unnecessary stress.

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They may also engage in bullying or harassment, creating a negative work environment where employees feel demoralised and unhappy. If you consistently observe several of these behaviours, it may indicate that a toxic individual is managing you.

Maintaining professionalism is crucial when dealing with a toxic manager. It involves conducting yourself respectfully and composedly, despite the challenges posed by their behaviour.

Firstly, avoiding gossiping or negative conversations about your toxic manager with your colleagues is essential. Such discussions can create a toxic work environment and even exacerbate the situation. Gossiping can lead to mistrust among team members and hinder collaboration. Instead, focus on your work and maintain a positive attitude. By staying focused on your tasks and responsibilities, you demonstrate your commitment to your job and maintain your professionalism.

Secondly, maintaining professionalism means  refraining from reacting emotionally to the toxic behaviour of your manager. While it can be challenging to remain calm in the face of criticism or unfair treatment, responding with emotional outbursts or confrontations will not resolve the issue and may even make it worse.

Instead, take a step back, breathe, and respond thoughtfully. This allows you to address any concerns or conflicts assertively and professionally.

Maintaining professionalism involves setting boundaries with your toxic manager. Clearly define what you are willing and unwilling to tolerate regarding their behaviour.

Communicate these boundaries respectfully but firmly when necessary. For example, if they consistently assign unrealistic deadlines that impede your ability to deliver quality work, propose alternative solutions that align with your workload and capabilities.

Contact trusted colleagues, friends, or mentors for support and advice. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the situation more effectively. Consider joining professional networks or online communities to connect with others in similar situations.

When interacting with your toxic manager, communicate assertively rather than passively or aggressively. Express your concerns calmly and clearly, focusing on specific problematic behaviors. Use "I" statements to express how their actions impact you personally.

Request feedback from colleagues or supervisors to gain a broader perspective on your performance. This can help counteract negative feedback or criticism from your toxic manager and provide a more balanced view of your work.

Familiarise yourself with your company's policies and procedures for addressing workplace issues.

This may include reporting mechanisms, employee assistance programmes, or mediation services.

Utilise these resources if necessary to address the toxic manager's behaviour.

Most companies have a grievance procedure normally part of your Company Code of Conduct. Utilise these with the help of your human resources department.

Consider external options. You may need to explore external options if the situation does not improve despite your efforts. This could involve seeking employment elsewhere or help from a psychologist or registered counsellor. Waiting too late can affect your mental health and, ultimately, your performance.

Conclusion

Toxic managers have far-reaching consequences on employees and the organisation as a whole. Recognising and addressing toxic behaviour is crucial for fostering a healthy work environment that promotes employee well-being, engagement, and productivity.

By cultivating positive leadership practices and prioritising the development of supportive managers, organisations can create a workplace where employees thrive and contribute to long-term success.

• Nguwi is an occupational psychologist, data scientist, speaker and managing consultant at Industrial Psychology Consultants (Pvt) Ltd, a management and HR consulting firm. https://www.linkedin.com/in/memorynguwi/ Phone +263 24 248 1 946-48/ 2290 0276, cell number +263 772 356 361 or e-mail: mnguwi@ipcconsultants.com or visit ipcconsultants.com.