Workplace Assassins: How Toxic Employees Wreak Havoc
A client recently shared how a new employee joined their team as a Workplace Assassin a few months ago. They didn't know it then, but now months later, with the team in disarray and communication breaking down, the client clearly sees the influence of that one person.
A workplace assassin is a person who seems to have taken a master class in negativity, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake—stealthily sabotaging the work environment and creating a toxic atmosphere that can turn even the most cheerful office into a warzone. Their toxic behavior erodes company culture, disrupts teamwork, and leaves their colleagues feeling like they need to sharpen their ninja skills to survive the office jungle.
The Workplace Assassin is a character who often goes unnoticed, blending in with the rest of the workforce until their unhealthy behavior comes to light. They may be skilled at their job, meeting performance targets and appearing competent on the surface. However, their destructive behavior undermines the foundation of a healthy work environment and has far-reaching consequences.
One of the most damaging ways a Workplace Assassin impacts the workplace is through the erosion of company culture. A positive and healthy culture promotes collaboration, teamwork, and inclusivity, increasing engagement and productivity. However, a Workplace Assassin poisons the culture by engaging in behavior such as gossiping, spreading rumors, or engaging in backstabbing. They may also be arrogant or entitled, creating a toxic competitive environment that fosters individualism over teamwork. This leads to the breakdown of trust among team members and a decline in overall team performance.
Identifying such employees is challenging as they initially appear competent and may be skilled at hiding their toxic behavior. However, there are some red flags that employers and colleagues can look out for. For instance, a Workplace Assassin may engage in negative behavior such as spreading rumors, gossiping, or offering subtle negative comments about others. They may also exhibit selfish and self-centered behavior, showing little concern for their colleagues' well-being or the organization's overall goals. Additionally, they may have a history of interpersonal conflicts or poor relationships with colleagues. Recognizing these warning signs helps organizations proactively address the issue and prevent further damage.
Four Behaviors of a Workplace Assassin.
Gossiping and Spreading Rumors: Workplace Assassins are the kings and queens of gossip. They thrive on drama and can create a toxic atmosphere by sowing seeds of discord among team members.
Hoarding Resources and Information: Workplace Assassins are notorious for their selfish behavior. They collect resources, such as information or opportunities, for their benefit and refuse to share widely with others. This builds a sense of competition among team members, creating a toxic environment where collaboration is nonexistent.
Taking Credit for Others' Work: Workplace Assassins have a knack for stealing the limelight. They quickly take credit for others' hard work and ideas, leaving their colleagues feeling unappreciated and demotivated. This erodes trust and teamwork and creates a culture of self-serving behavior.
Engaging in Office Politics: Workplace Assassins are often the puppet masters of office politics. They manipulate team dynamics, play mind games, and create alliances to further their agenda. They seek to create an environment of mistrust and favoritism, where colleagues are pitted against each other.
Countermeasures to the Workplace Assassins
Dealing with a Workplace Assassin requires a strategic approach. Here are some countermeasures that can help you combat their toxic behavior and maintain your sanity in the office:
Don't Fuel the Rumor Mill: When you encounter gossip or rumors being spread by a Workplace Assassin, resist the urge to join in. Don't fuel the rumor mill by gossiping or passing on information without verifying its accuracy. Instead, set a positive example by focusing on factual information and addressing any misinformation that comes your way with integrity and professionalism.
Share Knowledge and Resources: One of the best ways to counter a Workplace Assassin's hoarding behavior is through sharing knowledge and resources openly with your team. Be generous with your expertise, information, and opportunities. Collaborate with your colleagues and encourage a culture of teamwork and mutual support. This can create a positive environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Publically Acknowledge Work: To protect yourself from a Workplace Assassin who tries to take credit for work, publicly share all contributions. Who was involved? What did everyone contribute? Keep gratitude and thanks flowing in your workplace.
Rise Above Office Politics: Getting caught up in the web of office politics created by a Workplace Assassin is easy. Refuse to engage.
You may wonder what to do if you're a leader facing a Workplace Assassin. Usually, there is more to a Workplace Assassin's behavior than stubborn negativity. So consider, is it possible to get to the root of the negativity? Do they need help at home, could they be stressed by the demands of life or feel under-utilized at work? If you notice toxic behavior, check and see if there's a deeper (often personal) issue at play. To the wider team, demonstrate you're not accepting Workplace Assassin behaviors by reemphasizing the kind of culture you're looking for. Encourage the positive. Acknowledge—publically and often—the work of your whole team.
Don't let a Workplace Assassin ruin your company, your team's experience, or your sanity as a leader.
Suppose you've noticed any of your own habits slipping into Workplace assassin territory. In that case, it's never too late to pivot and make a fresh start now. Begin by fostering thankfulness and bringing specific encouragement to those you work with. Acknowledge the work of colleagues. Refrain from sarcastic humor that undercuts collaboration and clarity.
How can you proactively acknowledge people's work this week?
Who do you need to thank today? And who might you have forgotten to thank from last week?
What isn't clear that needs clarification with the whole team?