If you’ve felt like your workplace has become more hostile lately, you’re not alone—or imagining things. A recent survey by Express Employment Professionals and Harris Poll reveals a stark reality: workplaces across the United States are growing increasingly toxic. The study, which polled 1,001 U.S. hiring decision-makers and 1,039 job-seeking adults, uncovered a troubling uptick in confrontational and mean behavior compared to three years ago.
Key findings from the survey paint a clear picture of a deteriorating work environment. Nearly 30% of employed job-seekers reported an increase in workplace confrontations, with male respondents (34%) more likely to notice this shift than their female counterparts (23%). Additionally, over 20% of respondents observed colleagues being “mean” to others at work over the past year. These numbers suggest that the interpersonal dynamics within organizations are fraying.
The survey also highlights a growing disconnect between employees and company culture. A whopping 54% of job seekers believe company culture should evolve with the times rather than forcing staff to conform to existing norms. This sentiment is particularly strong among female workers, with 59% endorsing the idea compared to 49% of male workers. Meanwhile, 55% of respondents felt it was inappropriate for bosses to demand the same boundaries from coworkers as they would from family and friends—a sign that the traditional hierarchies of the workplace are being questioned.
Perhaps most concerning, however, is the difficulty many employees face in distinguishing between a genuinely hostile work environment and simple personality clashes. A full 57% of surveyed individuals struggled to make this distinction, indicating a lack of clarity around what constitutes toxicity in the workplace. This ambiguity can lead to underreporting of toxic behavior and a failure to address systemic issues.
Amid these findings, 62% of job seekers expressed support for workplace signage reminding people to be nice to one another—a proposal that reflects a broader desire for greater kindness and respect in professional settings. This sentiment varied by generation, with Gen Z (78%) and millennials (64%) showing the strongest support, followed by Gen X (56%) and baby boomers or seniors (44%).
These results come at a time when workplaces are already under strain. The rise of political hostility toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, mass layoffs across industries, and high-profile cases of workplace toxicity—such as Elon Musk’s controversial approach at Twitter—have created a perfect storm of tension and mistrust. Experts warn that if companies ignore these warning signs, they risk losing talent and damaging morale. After all, workers are increasingly blaming “old-fashioned” workplace cultures for their dissatisfaction and considering looking for employment elsewhere.
Addressing workplace toxicity isn’t just about improving employee satisfaction; it’s also about safeguarding mental health. Research shows that improving workplace emotions can reduce the risk of worker depression. But experts agree that meaningful change starts at the top. For companies grappling with rising complaints about toxicity, the time to act is now.
Experts suggest that if companies are experiencing an increase in worker complaints about toxicity, it may be time to address these issues. Workers may be blaming “old-fashioned” workplace cultures and considering seeking employment elsewhere. Improving workplace emotions can reduce the risk of worker depression, and addressing these issues starts with decisions made at the top levels of management.
Conclusion
The rise in workplace toxicity, as highlighted by the Express Employment Professionals and Harris Poll survey, signals a concerning trend in workplace dynamics. With nearly 30% of employed job-seekers reporting increased confrontations and over 20% witnessing meanness, the issue is undeniable. The disconnect between employees and company culture, with 54% desiring cultural evolution, underscores the need for change. The ambiguity in distinguishing toxicity from personality clashes, reported by 57%, further complicates addressing the problem. The strong support for kindness initiatives, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, and the role of leadership in effecting change are crucial. Ignoring these issues risks talent loss and morale damage, emphasizing the urgency for leadership to act and foster a respectful, evolving work environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is causing the rise in workplace toxicity?
The rise in workplace toxicity is attributed to factors like increased confrontations, meanness, and a disconnect between employees and company culture. External factors such as political hostility towards DEI practices and high-profile cases also contribute.
2. How does company culture contribute to workplace toxicity?
Company culture contributes to toxicity when it fails to evolve, with 54% of job seekers wanting change. Traditional hierarchies and outdated norms can lead to dissatisfaction and tension among employees.
3. What is the impact of not addressing workplace toxicity?
Ignoring workplace toxicity can lead to talent loss, damaged morale, and increased risk of worker depression. It can also result in underreporting of toxic behavior and failure to address systemic issues.
4. How can leadership address workplace toxicity?
Leadership should initiate change by fostering open communication, promoting kindness, and evolving company culture. Addressing toxicity at the top levels of management is crucial for meaningful improvement.
5. What are the signs of a toxic workplace?
Signs include increased confrontations, meanness, and a lack of clarity on what constitutes toxicity. Ambiguity in distinguishing toxicity from personality clashes is also a significant indicator.
6. What solutions can improve the workplace environment?
Solutions include implementing kindness initiatives, such as workplace signage, and promoting a culture of respect. Leadership should encourage open dialogue and address systemic issues to create a positive work environment.