Let's face it, chances are you probably work, or have worked, with an office jerk, a-hole or bully. Toxic workers can have a profound and detrimental impact on organizations and their coworkers alike.

Their toxic behaviour and attitudes can lead to decreased morale, increased stress levels and diminished productivity. But it doesn't mean we must put up with their shenanigans, especially if leadership or HR decides to keep them around. 

If you're challenged by how to deal with your toxic coworkers, here are five strategies for staying focused, productive and keeping your sanity:

1. Change jobs inside your organization

Before you quit and move to another company, consider moving to a different part of your company. Companies like Salesforce rotate their employees to other roles every few months; employees (many of them engineers) attend their job fairs to be recruited by other departments and openly discuss switching teams. 

2. Avoid stooping to their level

When dealing with toxic coworkers, it's crucial to remain professional and not let their behaviour affect your conduct. Avoid stooping to their level or engaging in retaliatory behaviour. Focus on maintaining a respectful and productive work environment despite the a-holes wreaking havoc around you.

3. Set boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries is essential when dealing with toxic coworkers. Communicate what behaviour is unacceptable to you and firmly request that they respect your boundaries. Doing so establishes your expectations and sends a message that you will not tolerate toxic behaviour.

4. Surround yourself with a support network

Dealing with toxic coworkers can be emotionally draining, so seeking support from trusted colleagues, mentors or supervisors is vital.

Share your experiences and seek guidance on how to handle the situation effectively. Supportive individuals can offer valuable perspectives and advice on managing toxicity.

5. Study their behaviour

An out-of-the-box coping mechanism to protect from your coworker's craziness is to put yourself in the shoes of an expert or researcher studying their toxic behaviours.

When in their company during meetings or huddles, rather than getting triggered by their narcissism, put-down comment or belligerence, see it as a curious privilege to be able to observe such a rare specimen of a human being in action.

Studying your toxic colleagues in this light will make a toxic situation less upsetting, even when you can't control the situation.

6. Observe job candidates during interviews

During the interview process, watch for uncivil clues about how a potential boss or colleague treats you and others. If they don't listen, are rude, impatient or keep interrupting, it's a good sign you'll see the same behaviours show up once they're hired.

To minimize the risk of hiring toxic jerks, have job candidates participate in a work project or two and see how the work and people dynamics play out. Toxic behaviours may show up in real-life job auditions.

7. Focus on self-care

Dealing with toxic coworkers can be mentally and emotionally draining, so prioritizing self-care is crucial. Engage in activities that help you relax, recharge and maintain a positive mindset outside of work. This may include exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones or seeking professional support if needed.

Toxic coworkers can create a challenging work environment, but by implementing these strategies, you can protect your well-being, maintain productivity and contribute to a more positive workplace culture.

Inc