Exposing Toxic Work Cultures

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If you’re new here - Hi, I’m Suzy!?

I am a coach, people development & sales trainer/consultant. Dedicated to empowering individuals, teams and founders in high-growth scaling companies. I advise and support with Coaching, People Development and Sales Leadership.

My approach blends bespoke coaching, and real-world experience with development programmes, tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of high-growth environments.

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Exposing Toxic Work Cultures

‘Company culture’ is a hot topic at the moment. And so it should be..!?

Whilst some may think of workplace culture as fluffy marketing-esque terminology, it is not something that is a ‘nice to have’. In fact, it's an absolute necessity.

According to research done by Forbes Magazine, the number 1 reason why people leave a job is due to a toxic work culture. A significant aspect of this toxicity can be sometimes driven by a term called 'bro culture'.

‘Bro culture’ is a mindset which follows the ‘work hard play hard’ mantra, and is often presented in young, generally hyper-competitive males in the workplace.

And, in my experience, it operates in an environment of extremes - extreme behaviour (often negative or aggressive), extreme partying, and extreme reactions, all of which create a toxic environment of gossip and unhealthy competitiveness.

These individuals often prioritise personal success over everything else, showing minimal regard for others as long as they achieve their desired results.

Despite its long-standing presence, it's surprising how frequently 'bro culture' comes up in my coaching work.

So, if you are experiencing it right now, here are my suggestions to help you.

Get support?

No matter your gender, your background, or your job title, if you are feeling that you are in a workplace that has a toxic work culture, talking about your experiences to a friend or trusted colleague can really help.?

Not only will you feel a bit of instant relief, as a problem shared is a problem halved, but you may be able to devise a clear action plan as to how you are going to?address this issue.?

Assert the power of ‘no'

Saying no is a powerful tool. Use it when you can.?

And saying no doesn't mean you are being rude or disruptive - it is simply you setting a boundary and helping colleagues understand your position. And that’s ok.

Seek a professional coach

Often independent from your place of work, a coach can help you decipher the good from the bad, what is important for you to address and an external perspective. Speaking with a coach creates that safe space where you can know what you say will be in confidence but with a focus on moving forward.?

By taking proactive steps and seeking support, you can minimise the impact of toxicity or 'bro culture' in your workplace. You deserve to feel happy in your work.

Suzy x

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