What is the Actual Cost of Toxicity in the Workplace

 

In today's fast-paced businesses, success can be recorded by bottom-line results. A high-performing employee who consistently delivers revenue, drives innovation and secures key clients can seem invaluable. But what happens when that same individual is also the source of workplace toxicity? 

 

Perhaps you've noticed signs - higher-than-usual employee turnover, disengaged staff, or team members who avoid working with a particular individual. Maybe concerns have been raised, but their behaviour has been overlooked because this person is seen as a key player in driving results.  

 

If this happens in your business, the real question is: Can you afford to ignore it any longer? 

 

 

Take a step out and look in. 

Have you lost valuable employees who cited workplace culture as their reason for leaving? 

Do you see declining morale, unexplained absenteeism, or decreased productivity? 

Are complaints about an employee's behaviour brushed aside because they "get results"? 

Toxicity in the workplace impacts individuals and the entire organisation, from retention to reputation. More importantly, it takes a serious toll on the mental health and wellbeing of your employees. While ignoring the issue may seem like the most straightforward path in the short term, the long-term consequences can be devastating. 

 

 

Unchecked workplace toxicity can silently erode your business and affect the mental health of your team: 

Chronic exposure to toxic behaviour can lead to anxiety and depression. 

A hostile or unsupportive environment leaves employees emotionally drained, leading to disengagement. 

When employees fear speaking up or asking for help, they operate in survival rather than growth mode. 

Employees who don't feel safe or valued are less likely to contribute meaningfully. 

A culture of toxicity creates division, leading to communication breakdowns and mistrust. 

 

 

As a business owner, you can shape a workplace that prioritises performance and wellbeing. Here's how: 

Create a Safe Space for Open Communication 

Foster an open-door policy where employees can discuss concerns in a safe environment. 

Implement anonymous feedback channels to encourage honest workplace culture discussions. 

Conduct regular mental health check-ins to assess employee wellbeing. 

Set clear behavioural expectations and have accountability 

Establish and enforce zero-tolerance policies for toxic behaviours, regardless of performance. 

Provide mental health awareness training. 

Implement 360-degree feedback processes that include employee input on leadership behaviours. 

 

 

Promote mental health awareness initiatives such as workshops, guest speakers, and team discussions. 

Offer mental health support and access to professional coaching. 

Reinforce company values that emphasise respect, collaboration, and accountability. 

 

 

Investigate all concerns promptly and take corrective action based on evidence, not emotions. 

Offer behavioural improvement plans for those willing to change. 

Be prepared to remove individuals who refuse to align with a healthy workplace culture. 

 

 

Ignoring Employee Complaints – This weakens trust, morale, and psychological safety. 

Prioritising Business Results Over People – Sustainable success is built on a healthy, engaged workforce. 

Long-term damage is more significant if toxicity is ignored daily. 

Letting Fear Dictate Decisions – Regardless of results, no individual is worth compromising company culture. 

 

 

As a business owner, the choice is in your hands. A high-performing toxic individual might boost numbers today, but they may cost you in ways you cannot afford tomorrow. Ask yourself: 

Would I want to work in the culture I'm creating? 

Am I willing to risk losing my best employees because of one person's toxic behaviour? 

Is my workplace one where employees feel safe, valued, and supported? 

 

A thriving business isn't just about numbers—it's about people. If you care for your employees' mental wellbeing, they will take care of your business.  

 

The choice is clear: Act now to eliminate toxicity or watch as it slowly erodes everything you've worked to build. 

 

Annette