10 red flags you’re working with a toxic coworker and how to deal with them

A toxic coworker disrupts the workplace, creating an unhealthy and uncomfortable environment that affects everyone. This behavior not only impacts colleagues but also hinders the team’s success.

With this in mind, recognizing allies and those who may work against you is a key skill to have as you move through your career.

If you have a bad gut feeling about a colleague but can’t pinpoint why, it might be a warning sign, according to Amrit Sandhar, founder of The Engagement Coach.

A clinical psychologist and leadership coach, Ros Taylor adds that the spread of negative rumors pointing to one person could be the first sign of a toxic coworker.

In both cases, trusting your instincts and what others say is important, though challenging.

To help, they have outlined clear signs of a toxic coworker.

1. They are power trippers.

As people rise in rank, they often believe their views are the only correct ones, disregarding others’ input.

Sandhar noted that this mindset frequently causes individuals to think their version of the truth is valid. Consequently, this belief can overshadow and dismiss other viewpoints.

This can lead managers and those with more authority to impose their will on others rather than promoting inclusivity. Their actions may not explicitly say, “Do you know who I am?” but they certainly imply it.

2. They are manipulative.

According to Sandhar, some workers focus on their interests rather than the team’s success, harming everyone around them. They might step on others to reach their goals and change their behavior to please those in power. Clear signs include taking credit for others’ ideas or agreeing with the boss even when they don’t agree.

3. They are childish.

Toxic behavior often starts in childhood and can continue into adulthood if not addressed, warns Taylor. Such individuals may gossip, play the victim for sympathy, and blame others for their mistakes. Since these behaviors are learned early in life, seasoned professionals are unlikely to change soon.

4. They lack self-esteem.

A lack of self-esteem often leads to negative workplace behavior, says Taylor. Insecure individuals may try to boost themselves by putting others down, which can show up as jealousy, false friendliness, or misleading advice.

For instance, a leader who feels threatened by a more skilled team member might criticize them behind their back or give them harmful feedback.

5. They are microaggressors.

Microaggressions can significantly impact employees, according to Dr. Nika White, a DEI consultant. These subtle actions, whether spoken or unspoken, often reinforce stereotypes about various marginalized groups.

For example, a coworker might use terms like “sweetie” with a woman or claim, “I have a lot of Black friends!” to a person of color to seem non-racist, notes Robert H. Johnson Jr., a DEI consultant at DoorDash. Because microaggressions are often subtle and unconscious, they may go unnoticed.

White stresses the importance of holding people accountable, educating them, and fostering a safe environment for addressing these issues.

6. They always complain.

This type of coworker is easy to spot because they’re always complaining. Johnson Jr. said they might be griped about everything from coffee and meeting times to their manager and overall workplace issues. This constant negativity can spread and impact your own feelings about the job, according to The Muse.

Frequent complaining often signals that someone feels unheard at work. While occasional venting is normal, ongoing negativity can be overwhelming. It won’t help unless they address their concerns with their boss or union.

7. They only care about themselves.

This toxic coworker may witness your ideas being stolen and see microaggressions directed at you but often only empathizes with their own experiences, even when they face similar issues. People can lack awareness and may go along with things to fit in or protect their own jobs.

Johnson Jr. shares a personal story about a close coworker who dismissed his concerns about microaggressions he faced as a Black man despite accepting his support for her when she experienced similar issues as a woman.

8. They gossip all the time.

Gossip about colleagues is common outside the office or at work events, but when a coworker regularly talks behind others’ backs, it becomes toxic. These individuals might spread rumors or half-truths, sharing negative details about people like John from marketing or Haley, the receptionist.

They may do this due to insecurity, a desire to bond with others, or a need for attention. Constant gossip can hurt morale and undermine the team’s psychological safety.

9. They build conflict between other workers.

These individuals subtly create drama by encouraging you to speak negatively about your boss or colleagues while pretending to show “genuine care and concern,” Juliette Han, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist told CNBC.

For example, they might ask if a comment offended you after a meeting. They aim to stir up conflict between you and others while acting like they’re on your side.

10. They obstruct your growth.

According to Han, this person will only support you so much. They might try to keep you from meeting new people or taking on new projects if it doesn’t benefit them directly. If someone often discourages you from pursuing challenging assignments or new roles without giving clear reasons, it’s a red flag.

How to deal with a toxic coworker?

Handling a toxic coworker presents challenges that require balancing professionalism with personal well-being. Keep interactions focused on work and brief, avoiding negative talk or gossip. If the behavior impacts job performance or health, seek help from a supervisor or HR.

Here’s how to deal with a toxic coworker, according to a career strategist: