Do you sometimes feel as if paralysed at your workplace? If so, is it from nagging doubts about your job competence, or a toxic management culture at your company?
This question isn't always easy to answer, says business coach and psychologist Elke Overdick, but there are signs of the latter you can look for. If managerial toxicity is in fact the problem, then other employees are usually affected too.
"So it helps to compare notes with your co-workers on how they feel on the job," Overdick says.
There are a number of characteristics typical of toxic management: exploitation of its position of power, manipulation and control, emotional abuse such as dressing-downs in front of co-workers and constant criticism, unpredictable behaviour and a lack of support.
The consequence, Overdick says, is weakened self-esteem. Your self-doubt grows and anxiety and dejection arise, resulting in a lack of motivation. These psychological effects can lead to serious physical stress that manifests itself, for example, in muscle tension, indigestion and/or difficulty sleeping.
If you're in this situation, Overdick advises getting help. Conversations with co-workers who are similarly affected may be beneficial. You could also turn to employee representatives or external counselling services for assistance.
Trying to change toxic workplace structures isn't always a practicable option. Should this be the case, then a job change is often the only solution. – by Amelie Breitenhuber/dpa
