Toxic behavior is contagious. It is up to you to make sure you are not subject to catching a colleague or bosses toxic behavior patterns.
- If you plan to address the toxic person, stay calm, respectful and low key. Be polite and direct. Look into their eyes directly and show you are not afraid that you do want to work toward a positive solution. Be tactful and diplomatic. Do not show you are judging or forming any kind of opinion. Stay neutral both in body language and when verbally communicating.
- A recommended approach: “I know that you are having a problem with “x” not what the heck is wrong with you?”
Bring awareness out into the open