28 March 2013

Are you in a Toxic Workplace?


Does your company confront aggressive people about inappropriate behaviors? Does it warn bullies about dealing fairly with others and following company values? Does it investigate charges of backstabbing and manipulation?

If so, consider yourself fortunate. You are in a healthy workplace, with people in power who will support you in your fight with a bully.

On the other hand, do they turn a blind eye to bullying? Do they encourage or reward bullying behaviors? Does a workplace bully usually get his way? Is bullying behavior the norm rather than the exception?

In that case, you are probably in a toxic workplace. Even if you aren’t directly bullied, the fumes may get you. You may even conclude that finding a new job is the only viable solution.

 Signs of a toxic workplace


In a toxic workplace, dysfunctional attitudes and emotions seem to permeate the atmosphere.

1. Widespread anger and frustration
2. Workplace bully is admired

3. Scapegoats are always blamed

4. Dysfunctional relationships

5. Dysfunctional meetings
6. Obvious hypocrisy

7. Overly restrictive systems
8. Incompetent or powerless HR manager

 

Signs that management encourages bullying


In a toxic workplace, upper management has unknowingly displayed attitudes and imposed policies that have created an environment favorable to bullies and hostile to everyone else.
Management encourages bullying:

 1. Remote from employees
2. Bully is part of management “club”

3. Seems to deal with bully
4. Bullying is rewarded

5. Effort to appease a workplace bully

13 February 2013

Invitation to Aim High Toastmasters Anniversary


Come over on Thursday 14th February to celebrate with us our first anniversary in Jabriya Public Library at 6.45PM.

We have seats for 80 persons and parking space to accommodate that many. So invite your family members, friends or colleagues and introduce them to the best kept secret in Kuwait, Toastmasters!


 

I look forward to seeing you all again, and until then have a safe day ahead.