A toxic organisation will be stifling and dehumanising.

A toxic organisation, often driven by the egos of its leaders, can create a hostile and demoralising work environment. Such leaders may prioritise personal gain and self-aggrandisement over the well-being of their employees and the success of the organisation. Their actions and behaviours can have a significant negative impact on the morale, productivity, and overall health of the workforce.

Leaders in toxic organisations tend to be authoritarian and controlling, demanding unquestioning obedience and loyalty. Leaders tend to behave erratically, swinging between grandiosity and vindictiveness. They may lavish praise on those who flatter or cater to their ego, rewarding superficial loyalty over competence, while publicly belittling or punishing those who question or challenge them. They may micromanage their employees, undermining their autonomy and confidence. Their decisions are often arbitrary and based on personal biases rather than objective criteria. This can lead to a sense of unfairness and frustration among employees, who may feel powerless to influence the direction of the organisation.

A toxic organisation will be stifling and dehumanising. Employees in will experience a range of negative emotions, including stress, anxiety, and depression. They may feel undervalued, isolated, and unsupported. The fear of retribution or losing their jobs can prevent them from speaking out against the toxic culture. This can create a climate of silence and complacency, where employees may simply go through the motions without being truly engaged or motivated. Critical thinking and transparency are discouraged, as they pose a threat to the leader's fragile ego. Gossip, backstabbing, and jockeying for personal favour become common, as employees learn that personal success hinges on being in the leader’s good graces, not on merit. The focus on appearances over substance means that more energy is spent managing the leader's ego than doing meaningful work.

The toxic behaviour of leaders will eventually have a detrimental impact on the organisation's reputation and performance. Employees may be less likely to go the extra mile or take initiative when they feel undervalued and disrespected. This can lead to decreased productivity, increased turnover, and a decline in customer satisfaction. Additionally, the toxic culture can deter talented individuals from joining the organisation, making it difficult to attract and retain top talent.