Is Your Team Toxic? Warning Signs and Strategies for Medical Leaders
Creating a supportive workplace culture is essential in healthcare, where high-pressure environments can significantly impact team dynamics and individual wellbeing. Beyond being beneficial, fostering a positive work culture is a legal obligation under health and safety laws. Organisations must eliminate or minimise psychosocial risks as far as practicable.
What is Toxic Behaviour?
Toxic behaviour, also known as a psychosocial hazard, refers to any workplace factor that could cause psychological harm, such as mental health challenges. Examples include:
High job demands
Low job control
Poor support
Lack of role clarity
Ineffective change management
Inadequate recognition
Poor organisational justice
Traumatic events
Remote or isolated work
Poor physical environments
Violence or aggression
Bullying
Harassment
Conflict or strained workplace relationships
In the context of recruitment, a values-driven approach can attract candidates whose personal and professional beliefs align with those of the organisation. This alignment can lead to higher job satisfaction, better performance, and lower turnover rates. According to recent studies, workplaces with strong, well-communicated values see an increase in employee engagement and productivity.Â
How Common is Toxic Behaviour in Teams?
Independent research conducted in coordination with AusDoc reveals that over half of Australian professionals have experienced a toxic workplace, but fewer than half reported the behaviour. Of those who did report it, the majority said no action was taken. This highlights the urgent need for leaders to address and prevent toxic behaviours within their teams.
Why Address a Toxic Team Culture?
Toxic workplaces can have far-reaching consequences, including:
Reduced employee engagement and productivity
Increased turnover rates
Negative impacts on morale and creativity
Higher absenteeism and presenteeism
Increased workers’ compensation claims
Research also shows that many professionals have left jobs due to toxic environments, and the vast majority would avoid applying to organisations with a negative reputation.
Signs of Toxic Behaviour in Teams
Toxic behaviour may not always be obvious, but there are clear signs to watch for:
Reluctance from employees to engage or contribute.
Higher-than-usual use of sick leave.
Employees leaving promptly at the end of their shifts.
Disengagement from workplace events.
Notable changes in individual behaviour or attitudes.
Strategies for Managing Toxic Behaviour
A proactive approach is crucial for addressing toxic behaviours. Key strategies include:
Encouraging Open Communication: Foster a transparent culture where employees feel safe discussing issues.
Implementing Conflict Resolution: Use effective strategies to address disputes and misunderstandings promptly.
Promoting Team-Building Activities: Strengthen positive relationships through group exercises.
Providing Leadership Training: Equip managers with the tools to cultivate supportive and inclusive work environments.
Incorporating values into every aspect of your medical practice—from recruitment to daily operations—creates a cohesive, productive, and positive workplace, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and professional satisfaction.Â
Protecting Your Team from Toxic Behaviour
Leaders play a critical role in maintaining a healthy workplace culture. Key actions include:
Addressing poor behaviours immediately and consistently.
Establishing clear expectations and boundaries.
Documenting incidents of unhealthy behaviour for future reference.
Seeking support from HR or external advisors when necessary.
Advocating for organisational changes that prioritise team wellbeing.
Consistency is vital to building trust and maintaining a culture of accountability and respect.
Where to Seek Support
If you’re struggling to address toxic behaviours within your team, start by consulting HR or your line manager. Workplace laws require organisations to prioritise employee psychosocial safety. If internal support is unavailable or insufficient, consider:
Engaging external HR consultants.
Reaching out to professional peers for guidance and advice.
Consulting workplace psychologists for specialised insights and strategies.
Final Thoughts
Tackling toxic behaviour is vital for creating a thriving workplace. By addressing these issues proactively, medical leaders can foster environments that promote innovation, high performance, and overall employee satisfaction. A healthy team culture benefits not only employees but also the broader organisation, enhancing its reputation and success.
Tag
Workplace Culture