New research finds nearly two fifths feel less engaged with their roles as a result
Half of legal workers say their productivity has been impacted by ‘toxic workplace culture’, new research has found.
The findings, produced by software business Culture Shift, further show almost two fifths (38%) of those surveyed have been less engaged with their roles as a result of their workplace culture, while a little over a fifth (21%) having taken time off due to an incident which occurred at work. Seventeen percent reported calling in sick as a result of an incident.
The report also found that more than a quarter of legal workers (29%) would quit their current role as soon as they could find a new job, if they encountered or witnessed bullying or harassment. Nearly half of the 100 or so respondents (46%) said they would encourage a colleague to lawyer-up if they knew they were experiencing toxic workplace behaviour.
“The real impact of toxic workplace culture shouldn’t be underestimated. Often, people presume that problematic behaviour only impacts those experiencing it, however our research shows otherwise,” commented Gemma McCall, CEO of Culture Shift.
There are major financial implications, too.
Researchers say absenteeism is costing businesses billions through lost productivity, while those on the receiving end of bullying and harassment receive an average payout of £381,350. They also found, on average, employees are personally footing bills of £1,629 for things like therapy and legal fees.
McCall added:
“It’s not just the cost of legal fees and pay-outs which businesses need to be aware of, but having a toxic workplace culture directly impacts the bottom line through lost working hours, having to recruit new employees and paying temporary staff to cover long-term sick leave. In addition, problematic workplace behaviour can impact an investor’s decision on whether or not to provide funding.”
The legal profession has been blighted by reports of toxic workplace cultures.
An unnamed female partner grabbed headlines in 2020 after she went public with her decision to quit the “toxic” law firm she worked at for 13 years. Taking to forum Reddit, the lawyer explained how she felt overworked and undervalued, with workplace adjustments flatly ignored.
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