How can we handle toxic management at work?

Law Discussions
1

My colleagues and I are dealing with some serious management issues at our contract company. It’s a large organization, but there’s a lot of favoritism, retaliation, and even hostility from certain managers. One manager is particularly close to a key client, and that seems to make them untouchable. For example, a coworker was yelled at for being late, even though he informed our manager beforehand. HR has been no help. Has anyone else faced this kind of situation? Looking for advice.

2

That sounds so frustrating. Have you thought about filing a formal complaint? Documenting everything might be a good start.

3

Blaine said:
That sounds so frustrating. Have you thought about filing a formal complaint? Documenting everything might be a good start.

Good idea. Make sure to include dates, times, and exactly what was said. It could be useful later on.

4

@Tan
We’ve started doing that, but it feels like HR just brushes us off.

5

What about reaching out to someone higher up? If HR isn’t helpful, maybe try a senior leader or even legal advice.

6

Birch said:
What about reaching out to someone higher up? If HR isn’t helpful, maybe try a senior leader or even legal advice.

That’s a thought. Not sure if going over their heads will backfire, though. Anyone tried this?

7

@Bayley
It depends on the company culture. Sometimes it works, but it can also make things worse. Be cautious.

8

Quick question—what does nepotism mean? I don’t think I’ve heard that term before.

9

Reagan said:
Quick question—what does nepotism mean? I don’t think I’ve heard that term before.

It’s when someone hires or favors their friends or family, like our manager hiring their baby mama.

10

That panic attack incident you mentioned is really disturbing. No one should be treated like that at work.

11

Joss said:
That panic attack incident you mentioned is really disturbing. No one should be treated like that at work.

Absolutely. That kind of behavior should be reported. It’s not just unprofessional, it’s unethical.

12

FYI, legal action for a hostile work environment can be tricky unless it involves discrimination or a protected class.

13

Blakeley said:
FYI, legal action for a hostile work environment can be tricky unless it involves discrimination or a protected class.

That’s what we’re afraid of. It feels like bullying, but we don’t think it’s tied to anything protected.