Workplace Trends

Moving Away from the 

Toxic Work Culture


By Mike Moen
Producer, PNS
 

    North Dakota - (PNS) - 5/17/2022 - North Dakota has seen recent examples of staffing shake-ups among certain employers where a toxic environment was cited. It coincides with rhetoric about the need for companies and agencies to offer a more compassionate work setting.

    Earlier this year, Fargo Police leaders publicly responded to reports of low morale among officers. Similar issues prompted an internal investigation within Cass County Human Services.

    Dr. Hope Umansky, a psychological consultant for Innovations Advocacy Group, said those in management need to pay closer attention to how the workforce has responded to the pandemic.

    "I don't think people, with the shift in the last two years, are going to put up with just neglecting their families, their homes, their kids anymore," Umansky contended. "A good thing has been a reset toward, 'We don't need to be so busy all the time.' You know, like it's not healthy for anybody."

    She emphasized the mindset includes no longer feeling a sense of loyalty to a job if the person doesn't think they are valued by management.

    A recent report from MIT Sloan Management looked at turnover data during the "Great Resignation." Researchers found a toxic culture was the leading predictor of attrition.

    Umansky pointed out employers who do not look inward and improve leadership will face more instability, which could threaten the company's future.

    "If your [organizational] structure, your staff, your people aren't healthy psychologically and happy and thriving, the business isn't going to grow," Umansky stressed.

    She added while it's not an issue of ageism, younger generations have different expectations of a work-life balance. She suggests because it has been harder for them to obtain financial security, they have a different set of priorities as it relates to work.

References:
Police video City of Fargo 01/14/2022
Great resignation study MIT 01/11/2022