Recently, I asked people across a few of my assignments a simple question about toxic leadership.
Have you ever worked for a toxic leader?
The large majority said yes.
That says a lot.
There’s still far too much poor leadership out there, and too many people are paying the price for it mentally, emotionally, and professionally.
Most people could describe exactly what toxic leadership felt like:
– Being dismissed.
– Micromanaged.
– Publicly undermined.
– Excluded from decisions.
– Constantly anxious.
– Never feeling good enough, despite delivering results.
What’s worrying is how normal these experiences have become in many workplaces.
Leadership is not just about hitting targets or driving performance.
It directly impacts confidence, wellbeing, creativity, retention, and company culture.
People rarely leave because of the work itself.
They leave because of how they were made to feel while doing it.
The best leaders don’t use fear to create results.
They create clarity, trust, accountability, and psychological safety.
Leadership still needs to evolve.
It’s time to rise above toxicity.
What’s the worst leadership trait you’ve experienced in the workplace?
Originally published 19 May 2026 on LinkedIn. Follow Eric Stijnman on LinkedIn for more sales coaching and leadership insights