The cost of toxic leadership in the workplace – and how to avoid it |
You will probably recognise toxic leaders when you encounter them. They are the ones whose presence shifts the atmosphere, whose emails create unease, or whose behaviour limits the thinking of others. They often interrupt, frequently overlook contributions and hamper other people’s growth. While this behaviour is often seen as unfortunate but acceptable, the impact on employee wellbeing is corrosive.
Leadership shapes not only what people do, but how they experience their work and how they see themselves. In other words, leaders are responsible for the psychological environments they create. Research has highlighted leadership as a central influence on employee wellbeing.
Unfortunately, most employees report having experienced at least one toxic manager at some point. Even well-intentioned leaders may, at times, engage in toxic behaviour that diminishes others.
Our new research shows consistent declines across all dimensions of the wellbeing of employees who report to toxic leaders. Results from 273 employees highlighted negative impacts on emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning and accomplishment. The most pronounced effects showed up in their mindset and physical health, and affected employees said........