Building an Engaging Team in a Toxic Culture: Real-Life Strategies for New Leaders

Being a new leader can be a challenging endeavor on its own, but it becomes even more intimidating when you find yourself in a toxic work culture. Toxic cultures can be characterized by negativity, distrust, and often low morale just to name a few. However, you have the power to influence positive changes even as a new leader. These tips will help you implement real-life ways to build an engaging team even if the culture is toxic.

 

1. Lead by Example

One of the most powerful tools that you can leverage is your own behavior. Demonstrate the qualities you want to see in your team. Prioritize being positive, respectful & supportive. Over time, your actions will influence the behavior of others.

 

Real-life Tip: Be mindful about living out the core values you expect from your team. As your team witnesses you doing this, it makes it easier for them to adopt positive & healthy behavior as well.

 

2. Identify Allies

Look for allies within the organization who share your desire for a healthier culture. These individuals can provide support, share insights & help you navigate the challenges of your new role.

 

Real-life Tip: Arrange one-on-one meetings with colleagues who seem open to change & seek their perspectives on improving the team culture. This opens the door to creating a shared vision that sets the foundation for culture change.

 

3. Open Communication Channels

Create an environment where team members feel safe to express their concerns. Hold regular team meetings to discuss issues openly & encourage feedback.

 

Real-life Tip: Implement ways for your team to share their feedback and/or suggestions anonymously. This allows team members to voice concerns without fear of retaliation.

 

4. Set Clear Expectations

Establish clear goals & expectations for your team. This provides a sense of purpose and direction, even in a toxic environment.

 

Real-life Tip: Expectations are clear when you confirm that the employee understands the tasks, responsibilities & expectations of the instructions given. Be specific about what “done” looks like, as clear expectations create clear ownership.

 

5. Recognize and Celebrate Achievements

In a toxic culture, it’s easy to focus on shortcomings. Break this cycle by recognizing & celebrating both small & big achievements within your team.

 

Real-life Tip: Showing appreciation shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. Get to know your team individually & appreciate them in a way that resonates with each person specifically. Whether it’s a handwritten note, a coffee shop gift card, or a shoutout in a team meeting, personalization shows you pay attention.

 

6. Invest in Team Development

Offer training & development opportunities for your team. This not only enhances their skills but also demonstrates your commitment to their growth.

 

Real-life Tip: Find out what career goals and/or skills each team member is interested in. Champion their professional development by allowing them to work on projects/tasks that will help them grow in those areas.

 

7. Address Toxic Behaviors Head-On

Don’t shy away from addressing toxic behaviors or situations. Address them calmly & professionally, emphasizing the importance of a healthy work environment.

 

Real-life Tip: Use specific examples to highlight toxic behaviors & discuss alternative approaches.

 

8. Promote Work-Life Harmony

Since “balance” implies that there’s equal distribution of effort, focus on encouraging work-life harmony instead. Harmony allows space for work & life to work together. Encourage a healthy work-life harmony by respecting personal time & boundaries.

 

Real-life Tip: Model a balanced approach by taking breaks & vacations yourself and encouraging your team to do the same.

 

9. Stay Resilient

There’s no quick fix to building an engaging team in a toxic culture. It requires resilience. Stay committed to your vision, even when faced with setbacks.

 

Real-life Tip: Refer back to your vision regularly. Keep a journal of small wins & positive changes to remind yourself of the progress you’ve made.

 

Building an engaging team in a toxic culture is without a doubt a challenging task, but it’s not impossible. By leading with integrity, fostering open communication & creating a supportive environment, you can make a real difference. Your efforts will not only benefit your team, but it may also start a positive ripple effect within the organization, gradually transforming the toxic culture into a healthier one. Remember that change takes time, so stay patient, persistent, intentional & committed to your goal of creating a work environment where your team shows up to do their best because they choose to!