Do you feel that the post-Covid work environment in 2025 is one of the most challenging and politically charged we’ve seen in the last decade? The level of toxicity seems to be at an all-time high, with many employees living in fear of layoffs. I’ve never experienced anything quite like this.
There’s constant infighting, backstabbing, and a whirlwind of lies, rumors, and gossip. I’ve even seen some bizarre behavior, like people sabotaging each other’s work files. While these issues have always existed, they seem to be more pronounced than ever.
I’ve overheard some really unsettling conversations, too, like:
“Is Mike still out?”
“Yeah, he’s on bereavement—his dad passed away.”
“And? It’s been two weeks; when’s he planning on coming back? This should be dealt with by now.”
One response
It sounds like you’re experiencing a really challenging work environment, and it’s unfortunate to hear that things have reached such a toxic level. The fear of layoffs and uncertainty can definitely heighten tensions and lead to unhealthy behaviors among colleagues. It’s concerning that instead of supporting one another, people are resorting to backstabbing and spreading negative gossip.
The example you shared about Mike’s situation is particularly troubling—it’s amazing how some individuals can lack empathy in such difficult circumstances. A positive workplace thrives on collaboration and support, and it seems that many are missing that mark.
Have you thought about ways to address this situation, either personally or as a team? Sometimes fostering open communication and creating a culture of accountability can help mitigate some of these issues, but it requires effort from everyone involved. It might also be helpful to reach out to leadership if it gets too severe, as they may not be fully aware of the impact this atmosphere is having on employee morale and well-being.