Deal with toxic boss in these 5 simple steps

Characteristics of a toxic boss often include partiality, disrespect for employee wellness, self-appraisal, enjoyment of gossip, and disregarding their staff, to name just a few. Although the descriptions of toxic workplaces and toxic bosses do not directly relate to one another, they do have some things in common.

It’s essential to start addressing these issues sooner rather than later, whether we are afraid to confess it or have been led to believe that our toxic bosses and work settings are normal. Having a positive working relationship with your company is key for your mental health as well as a critical factor that can affect your job performance.

In the list that follows, we’ll quickly go over a number of strategies for dealing with toxic bosses and managing the anxiety-inducing feelings that come with working with them on a regular basis.

1. Deal with the issue (toxic boss)

By directly dealing with the issue, you’ll not only make the situation clear to the other individual but also open a channel for input from other workers.

Find someone who can assist you if you feel that your boss is avoiding you or is unwilling to work on any issues. Ask your supervisor or line manager for advice, or chat with your human resources manager. Take some time to reflect on your role in the company and whether you are valued at all if they are not being helpful.

It could be a little more difficult for you to deal with the situation at first, but it’s preferable to get rid of toxic behaviour right away than to let it continue.

2. Stay away from the office drama

Distancing yourself from the drama will be easier if you maintain a professional outlook and stay true to your core principles, especially if your job is the source of the drama. Establish limits that are relevant yet explicit, and abstain from participating in office rumours. Keep things “strictly professional” at all times, even if it’s challenging, and try not to let bad attitudes or behaviours affect your work.

3. Keep a close eye on your boss

Keeping a record of your boss’s behaviour can seem weird, but if you ever find yourself the target of inappropriate behaviour, you can use the records as a comprehensive account of your own experiences to support your claim.

The easiest method to prove your case is to keep copies of all correspondence, papers, and emails that could point to a pattern of harmful behaviour. You need complete records that can demonstrate toxic behaviour patterns because having vague records or accounts from third parties won’t help much with your case.

4. Look for a stress reliever

Take some time to entirely disconnect from work and work-related difficulties to ensure you can handle higher levels of stress.

Make time for yourself, whether it be through fitness, walking your dogs, or even something as simple as baking, cooking, or maybe going out for a drink with a friend.

Although dealing with your toxic job is still the immediate problem at hand, doing this will help you relax and release any tension that may have built up in your body and head. Make time for yourself after work every day; no matter what you’re doing, you must put yourself and your mental health first.

5. Decide an exit plan

Plan your exit route as you wait to see how the situation plays out. Begin by looking for a new position and building a network of acquaintances outside of work who can assist you in finding one elsewhere.

Hunt for a bridge job that can support you financially while you look for a new position if it seems like the situation will only get worse and force you to quit on the spot. Even if you believe that having to leave has nothing to do with your level of competence or professionalism, always make sure to part ways amicably.

Last Words

Searching for toxic behaviour solutions all the time will just make you feel more anxious and exhausted. Make time for yourself, and if things start to go south quickly, arrange a way out. Be professional and, most importantly, avoid letting toxic conduct sabotage your career.

You can now write for RSP Magazine and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.