5 Signs of a Toxic Workplace and Ideas for a Christian Response

5 Signs of a Toxic Workplace and Ideas for a Christian Response

By Darrel Harvey

If you Google that topic, you’ll find lots of lists and most of them include:

• Leaders who micromanage

• A lack of clear boundaries

• High turnover

• An environment of fear

• A culture of blame

We could debate whether the specific points above are the sign, source, or a symptom of a toxic workplace so let’s just agree that many workplaces are broken. Maybe you are reading this at a desk in one of them right now. If so, I’ve got good news…that’s why you are there!

I’m not trying to diminish the dysfunction or the pain and frustration you are dealing with. And I’m certainly not telling you to take abuse as a badge of honor or overlook unethical or unlawful behavior. If you are experiencing any of those, stop reading, and take immediate action.

For the rest of us I’m pointing us back to what Jesus said in the sermon on the mount.

After He outlines all who are blessed (which includes the poor, the grieving, the hungry and thirsty, and the persecuted) He called His followers salt and light. Then he said, “…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NIV)

What are the good deeds that would point my coworkers to our Father in heaven?

It begins with being good at the work you’ve been assigned to do. Period. Toxic environment or not. One of most frustrating parts of being in a dysfunctional workplace is how powerless we can feel. Recognize where you have agency to act and act...with wise timing, a genuine goal to serve, and a loving confident tone.

Provide a timeline with appropriate check-ins. Chances are this is already in place and he is ignoring it. So, tactfully resend it or remind him of where to find.

Schedule a meeting with her to express your desire to a good job and confirm her expectations. It’s as much on you to express your need for clarity as it is for her to deliver it.

Ask your supervisor, “Hey, could I have 15 minutes to bounce something off you?” I’m sure they will say yes. When you meet give them a glimpse of how you are thinking about addressing the issue or solving the problem or developing the strategy. This small ask will often build a bridge and build your confidence.

These practical suggestions won’t change a toxic workplace overnight, but they will begin to shift your uneasiness, and it will be noticed by the people you work with…pointing them to your Father in heaven.

For more about work culture, check out our podcast with Steve Blair. You can also join us in-person for our next Workmatters Forum with Steve, where we'll dive deeper into toxic workplaces and how to build a culture that thrives.