How to prevent toxic workplace behavior: A guide for employers and employees
2026-Feb-25 09:00
Photo from: Pexels
Toxic behavior often begins when no one speaks up or addresses it. Many of us avoid pointing out the source of complaints for fear of being labeled a "killjoy" or spoiling the fun, allowing inappropriate behavior to go unchecked and become part of the workplace culture.
Here are a few tips to help prevent toxic behavior from spreading at work:
1. Embrace constructive feedback from colleagues
Make it a habit to actively listen to your coworkers' feedback and never ignore it. Respecting everyone's perspective helps you understand the behaviors and standards expected within the team.
2. Clearly define acceptable workplace behavior
Outline the behaviors that reflect the expectations of the team. Clear guidelines prevent confusion and eliminate guesswork, setting a standard for everyone to follow.
3. Implement fair discipline
Even as adults, discipline is necessary to achieve team goals. As a group, discuss and agree on how to address behaviors that hinder progress. This helps foster a workplace culture that values proper conduct and supports shared objectives.
4. Make it a habit to say sorry or "I apologize"
Apologizing does not diminish your character. Making it a regular practice within the workplace promotes accountability and strengthens team relationships.
5. Always reflect on others' feelings
When unsure of the right course of action, put yourself in someone else's shoes. Consider how you would want to be treated in their situation and identify actions you wouldn't appreciate from others.
Creating a healthy and positive workplace starts with awareness and action. By encouraging open communication, setting clear expectations, practicing fair discipline, apologizing when necessary, and considering others' feelings, teams can prevent toxic behavior from taking hold. Applying these tips helps build a respectful, supportive, and productive work environment where everyone can thrive.
For more workplace productivity tips, tune in to Trabaho Tips with Glady Mabini on Radyo Natin Nationwide, airing daily from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM.
Source: How to Prevent a Toxic Culture in the Workplace (ARKBO Technologies), Strategies to Prevent Toxic Work Culture (Forbes), and Trabaho Tips – Radyo Natin with Glady Mabini