Toxic workplace traits can have a serious impact on employee engagement, productivity, wellbeing and retention. Even when an organisation is not intentionally creating a negative culture, small issues can build over time and affect how people feel about their work.
INTOO’s toxic workplace report, created in partnership with Workplace Intelligence, explores the behaviours and workplace practices that employees and HR leaders most commonly associate with toxic environments.
Based on research with 1,600 employees and HR leaders, the report looks beyond obvious issues such as gossip and micromanagement. It highlights the deeper cultural concerns that can damage trust, reduce motivation and make people more likely to leave.
Why toxic workplace traits matter
Toxic workplace traits do not only affect individual employees. They can influence team morale, absence levels, performance, customer experience and employer reputation.
The report highlights that many employees who experience workplace toxicity say it affects their engagement and productivity. Some have used sick leave or personal leave to avoid a difficult work environment, while others would consider accepting a pay cut to work somewhere with a healthier culture.
For employers, this creates a clear challenge. How can organisations identify toxic traits early, address them fairly and create a workplace where people feel heard, valued and supported?
What the report covers
Inside the toxic workplace report, you’ll find insight into:
- The most common toxic traits employees experience at work
- How workplace toxicity affects engagement, productivity and retention
- Why fairness, transparency and communication matter
- The role managers and leaders play in shaping workplace culture
- How career growth and learning opportunities can reduce toxicity
- Practical steps employers can take to create a more positive culture
- Why listening to employee feedback is essential for lasting change
The report also explores how a more positive culture can support stronger engagement, better performance and improved retention.
Building a healthier workplace culture
No organisation sets out to create a workplace where people feel undervalued, unsafe or unsupported. However, toxic traits can still emerge during periods of change, growth, pressure or uncertainty.
By improving communication, recognising employee contribution, creating fair opportunities for development and holding leaders accountable, employers can build a culture where people feel more connected and motivated.
View or download the report below to explore the findings and learn how to combat toxic workplace traits in a practical and meaningful way.
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Let’s talk about outplacement support
If your organisation is planning redundancies, restructuring or workforce change, INTOO can help you provide compassionate and effective outplacement support for your people.
Our core outplacement services help employees move forward with confidence, while also helping organisations protect trust, culture and employer reputation. We can also support your teams with coaching, career development and career transition services to improve engagement and help people navigate change.
Complete the form below to speak to our team and explore the right support for your organisation.
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