
Should I Leave A Toxic Workplace?

"I was hired by a non-profit organization that works for the 'good' of others with values like 'kindness' and 'compassion'. When dealing with outside stakeholders, everyone is professional, nice and helpful. It's the opposite in the office. I am micromanaged, treated with disrespect and expected to sacrifice my personal life. I don't know how to function in this environment. But I love what I do and believe in our mission. Should I stay or go?" AVA Advice: Before taking any action, spend some time assessing the situation. Our upcoming Power & Influence workshop addresses this, but here are a couple of things to think about: 1) Figure out where the decisions are coming from. Who is in the room and what are their reactions when these things happen? If this behavior is coming from or tolerated by the top, it is unlikely the culture will change. 2) Figure out how much credibility and power you might have in this situation. That will help you answer whether to elevate your concerns. 3) What is your goal with this job? Is this a lifelong career choice for you? Is the mental and emotional toll more than the other benefits the job brings you? 4) Under which circumstances would you stay? Under which would you go?