Episode 18 – Organisational Psychologist Beulah Joseph onToxic Relationships at Work

Dr Josephine interviews Beulah Joseph, a Registered Psychologist, researcher, author and Employee Assistance Program Guru about the nature of toxic relationships at work.
We discuss how to identify a toxic relationship or workplace environment, and importantly, what to do if you find yourself in one.

Here are some tips from Beulah about how to deal with Toxic Relationships at work:
What to do when in a toxic relationship
1. Find others who feel and think similar to you.
a. Create a social space where you can refocus on positive aspects of your current context
b. This can become a group that looks out for one another
2. Set clear boundaries between work and life
a. Work is not the only thing in your life. Draw a line under your workday and do something else.
b. Do things that are fun eg gym, catch up with friends, pottering around the house, family dinners, etc.
3. Plan for unwinding
a. Block time out during your work day and outside work hours to unwind. This is just as important as completing work tasks. It could be as simple as stepping away from your desk and taking 10 deep breaths or listening to music. Ask yourself what helps you relax and set aside time to do these things.
4. Create lists to help you focus on your work tasks
a. This can help draw your attention to the tasks themselves rather than the negative environment or relationship
5. Document everything you do
a. Save emails, comments/decisions from meetings, phone calls, etc. This will help if you do need to make a complaint down the track
6. Consider your exit strategy
a. Things may improve but it is always handy to be aware of what opportunities are out there.

Options of support:
1. HR – can be accessed for informal support i.e. finding out about roles and responsibilities, internal policies about appropriate workplace behaviours, advice on how best to informally and/or formally manage a work issue
2. EAP – most workplaces offer their staff support through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider. Sometimes immediate family members can access these supports. Check with your provider
3. Coaches – can be accessed through Geared for Growth or Beulah Joseph herself

As always, please give us your questions and stories: josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz