How Can You Handle a Toxic Boss Who Makes You Cry Daily?

Understanding how to deal with a toxic boss is essential for maintaining mental health and career trajectory. Insights from experts reveal that while many managers may simply lack leadership skills, toxic bosses deliberately undermine their teams, creating a harmful environment. Knowing the signs of a toxic workplace is crucial for employees like Maya, who endured public humiliation and unrealistic expectations, leading to widespread distress within her team.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Recent reports shed light on the prevalence of toxic bosses within organisations. Employees are increasingly leaving jobs due to hostile work environments, with studies indicating that one in three workers have exited roles because of poor management. This trend highlights a growing awareness of workplace mental health and the need for organisations to address leadership quality.

Key takeaways

• One in three employees quit due to a toxic workplace or manager.
• Toxic bosses often lack empathy and self-awareness, intentionally undermining their teams.
• Accidental managers may exhibit poor behaviour due to inexperience rather than malice.

Timeline: how we got here

The discourse around toxic workplaces has gained momentum over the past few years. Notable milestones include:

• 2018: Increased media coverage on workplace bullying and mental health.
• 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted mental health issues, prompting discussions about workplace culture.
• 2021: Reports indicate a rise in employees leaving jobs due to toxic management.
• 2023: Studies reveal that one-third of employees have left due to toxic workplaces.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent interviews and studies have drawn attention to the psychological impact of toxic management styles, with personal accounts from employees like Maya and Josie illustrating the detrimental effects on mental health and performance. These revelations are prompting organisations to reassess their management training and employee support systems.

What was already established

It has long been understood that effective leadership is pivotal to employee satisfaction and retention. However, the distinction between a poor manager and a toxic boss is increasingly crucial, as the latter can create environments that lead to mental health crises and diminished productivity.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Toxic work environments can lead to increased employee turnover, affecting consumer services as businesses struggle to maintain staff. Employees facing mental health challenges may also take more sick leave, impacting overall productivity and service delivery.

Businesses and jobs

High turnover rates due to poor management can strain supply chains and increase hiring costs. Businesses may find themselves in a vicious cycle, needing to continually train new employees while failing to cultivate a stable, experienced workforce.

Policy and regulation

UK organisations are increasingly under scrutiny regarding workplace culture. Upcoming consultations may address the need for improved management training and mental health support, ensuring that employees can work in environments that promote well-being rather than fear.

Numbers that matter

• 33%: Percentage of employees who have left jobs due to toxic workplaces.
• 1 in 5: Employees reporting mental health issues linked to workplace stress.
• 50%: Employees who feel they have experienced bullying or harassment at work.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Toxic boss: A manager who deliberately undermines their team, creating a hostile work environment.
• Accidental manager: A leader promoted for technical skills rather than leadership abilities, often resulting in poor management practices.
• Mental health: Emotional, psychological, and social well-being affecting how individuals think, feel, and act.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate aftermath of identifying a toxic work environment, employees should document incidents, seek support from HR, and explore potential internal transfers if possible.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Consider networking and searching for new job opportunities while utilising professional development resources to enhance skills that may be required in future roles.

Signals to watch

• Increased reports of employee dissatisfaction and turnover rates within the organisation.
• Changes in management policies or training initiatives aimed at improving workplace culture.
• Feedback from colleagues regarding management styles and employee well-being.

Practical guidance

Do

• Document specific incidents of toxic behaviour for reference.
• Seek support from HR or employee assistance programmes.
• Look for allies within the workplace who share similar concerns.

Don’t

• Don’t isolate yourself; seek assistance and share experiences with trusted colleagues.
• Don’t confront the toxic boss directly without support or a strategy.
• Don’t neglect your mental health; utilise available resources to cope with stress.

Checklist

• Assess your workplace culture and identify signs of toxicity.
• Make a list of specific incidents that exemplify toxic behaviour.
• Reach out to HR or a trusted colleague for advice.
• Explore options for transferring to another department if possible.
• Begin job searching discreetly while remaining professional at work.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

It is essential to approach the topic of toxic management with caution. While personal accounts provide valuable insight, they may not represent the broader organisational culture. Additionally, not all reported behaviours may qualify as "toxic," and individual experiences can vary significantly. Employees should consider the context and seek professional guidance if needed.

Bottom line

Toxic bosses can severely impact mental health and career progression. Understanding the difference between poor management and toxic behaviour is crucial for employees seeking to navigate their professional environments effectively. Taking proactive steps can help mitigate the effects of a toxic workplace while planning for a more positive career path.

FAQs

What defines a toxic boss?

A toxic boss is characterised by their deliberate undermining of employees, lack of empathy, and creation of a hostile work environment, which can lead to severe mental health issues.

How can I cope with a toxic workplace?

Document incidents, seek support from HR, and explore options for internal transfers or new job opportunities while maintaining professionalism.

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed at work?

If you feel overwhelmed, prioritise your mental health by utilising available resources, seeking support from colleagues, or consulting a mental health professional.