Diagnosing Toxicity

Over the years, I’ve seen incredible resumes paired with toxic behaviors drag entire teams into mediocrity. A team member with an impressive skill set but a toxic attitude will always be less productive—and far more damaging—than someone with entry-level skills and a positive outlook. Toxic behaviors rarely disappear on their own; they must be confronted and, if necessary, extracted.

The biggest danger? When your top-performing employees get fed up with a toxic environment and leave. Now, you’re left with the toxicity and a talent gap. This marks the beginning of a downward spiral for your team.

As leaders, it’s our responsibility to consistently scan for toxic behaviors, diagnose them, and create a treatment plan. Like a coach fine-tuning a sports team, managers and owners must remain vigilant. While some toxic traits can be addressed through coaching, conversations, and corrective actions, others require a decisive “redeployment” of the employee to another opportunity—outside your team.

Below are some of the most common toxic behaviors I’ve identified in my years of coaching teams. Use this list as your diagnostic tool to begin 2025 with less toxicity and more positivity.

1. Frequent Complaining

Chronic complainers sap energy and morale. Complaints without solutions are red flags of disengagement.

2. Negative Attitude

A defeatist outlook spreads faster than you think. Negativity from one person can impact the entire team’s productivity.

3. Resists Feedback

Defensiveness in the face of constructive criticism often signals an unwillingness to grow—a toxic trait in any role.

4. Gossiping

Rumors and backbiting create a toxic undercurrent, eroding trust among team members.

5. Blame Shifting

Employees who dodge accountability weaken team cohesion and destroy trust.

6. Lack of Accountability

Failing to meet deadlines or follow through on commitments burdens the rest of the team unnecessarily.

7. Manipulative Behavior

Subtle deceit or power plays damage relationships and morale.

8. Poor Communication

Miscommunication—intentional or not—creates confusion and inefficiency, dragging down the team.

9. Undermines Teamwork

A refusal to collaborate often divides teams and derails projects.

10. Regularly Disruptive

Constant distractions from one individual impede progress for the entire team.

11. Overly Competitive

Unhealthy competition can sabotage trust and camaraderie, key ingredients for a successful team.

12. Passive-Aggressive Actions

Sarcasm, backhanded comments, and subtle hostility create unnecessary tension.

13. Low Productivity

Consistent underperformance adds strain on high-performing team members.

14. Takes Credit for Others’ Work

Nothing breaks trust faster than stealing recognition.

15. Creates Conflict

Thriving on drama or conflict is a clear sign of toxicity.

16. Entitlement Mentality

Expecting special treatment without earning it signals a lack of respect for the team.

17. Lack of Empathy

Indifference to others’ struggles undermines team morale.

18. Ethically Questionable Behavior

Dishonesty or unethical actions jeopardize the integrity of the entire team.

19. Frequent Absenteeism

Unexplained absences disrupt workflows and create resentment.

20. Resistant to Change

Pushing back against innovation hinders growth and progress.

When it comes to addressing these traits, remember this: being proactive is your best defense. Toxic behaviors rarely resolve themselves, but when managed correctly, they can be eliminated. Coaching and corrective action are crucial first steps, but if progress stalls, it’s time to redeploy and upgrade.

Don’t let toxic behaviors drive away your best people. Start 2025 with a renewed commitment to cultivating a positive, productive team culture. Diagnose the problem, treat the issues, and create the environment your star performers deserve.