How to Deal with Toxic People at Work

American businesses have lost $223 billion due to turnover in the last five years due to poor work culture due to one or two toxic employees. Do you have someone in your work place that is creating a difficult culture?

This is one of the biggest reasons a top performer will choose to make a change. One toxic worker can completely infiltrate the company culture.

Hiring managers beware.

But what do you do if there is a toxic person at your company and your boss is doing nothing about it?

When talking with Jeff Harry, Positive Psychology Play Coach on the Thriving After 40 podcast, he provided excellent advice that can be used when dealing with any toxic person, whether in the workplace or at home.

1. Make sure the rules apply to your toxic person. Organize around them, enlist the help of others in your circle or who are affected, agree to back each other up during meetings or gatherings - together you stop allowing this person to talk over people, intimidate or be rude to other people.

2. You confront the person directly - make sure you don't attack the character but address the behavior and the impact it is having - when you did this, you made me feel this, was that your intent? There are times when the person is unaware they are doing an offensive behavior and this can often help remedy the situation. If not, then you know where you stand.

3. If you need to talk with a supervisor or family member - avoid complaining about the situation and instead point out the impact the behavior is having on you and the environment around all of you

4. Jeff also suggests dealing with what's going on inside of you, what is this person triggering in you. Take time to reflect on all the things that make you amazing and unique, find your confidence and when you do, you tell that toxic person not to disrespect you in that way. You don't have to let anything this person says in. When you stand up for yourself, others will see that and it gives them permission to stand up for themselves. Then the toxic person has a choice - either change their behavior or leave because they can no longer be themselves.

5. I'd also add that when people are acting out, rude or bullying, you can try turning to them and saying - did you know that those who hurt others are really those that feel bad and are hurting the most themselves - are you having a tough time right now? A bad day? Is there something you need to talk about? I've seen this simple moment transform many a situation.

6. Lastly, as Jeff reminds us, even for listeners who feel they have tried everything, keep trying - by you not being silent, you will empower others to speak up as well

Remember, the navy seals never pick a brilliant jerk no matter how great they are because they will destroy the team - this sentiment holds true for all groups - avoid the jerks, no matter how brilliant they are, they are never worth the misery they bring.

Create for your life and your work a "No Jerk" Policy. You deserve nothing less.

For more from Jeff Harry, aka, Dr. of Mischief, Positive Psychology Play Coach, International Play Speaker & HR Influencer, listen here: https://spoti.fi/3POZR3d