I attended a graduation ceremony recently where a speaker shared a really good piece of advice with the graduates. He explained how important it is to do work that you really enjoy because you’ll likely spend the next 20-30 years in that profession. That’s a good chunk of your life.

The same concept applies to your work environment. Since around one-third of your life will likely be spent at work, it’s really important that you enjoy what you do and avoid working in a toxic work environment. 

However, many of us find ourselves at some point in our careers working somewhere that is less than ideal. Inside the Women of Project Management membership, Marquise Vilsaint, MBA, PMP, CSM teaches the skills needed to ditch the toxic work environment.

You can hear from speakers like Marquise during our Lunch & Learns that occur every third Friday of the month for members and non-members. 

Below are 10 steps to free yourself from a toxic work environment. 

1. Assess your situation.

Before jumping to conclusions, take a step back and observe the situation objectively. Acting too swiftly could result in repeated mistakes on your part. Which ultimately won’t make a difference if you change your work environment. Taking the time to assess the situation allows you to make better decisions.  

2. Identify and express what your boundaries are.

Boundaries will help you have a better overall experience at work. Identify what they are and do not allow them to be crossed by you or anyone at work. If the boundary does not interfere with your ability to effectively do your job, then it shouldn’t be crossed. 

3. Seek support from your peers.

Gaining different perspectives from your peers is so important. They may be able to provide insight and highlight things you may not be aware of. Hearing other points of view and maybe even solutions to problems you experience could be the holy grail to your freedom from toxicity.

4. Document the incidents that appear to be toxic.

If you’re a woman in project management, you know how important documentation is. Keep a record of all thighs that appear to be toxic in your work environment. Document things as you experience them; be sure to include the time and date. Trying to recall incidents at a later date opens the door to embellishments and misunderstandings.

5. Involve HR if necessary.

Before making the decision to leave, reach out to HR if the situation requires conflict resolution or if you need additional guidance and support. 

6. Start exploring external options.

If all else fails, start exploring other options. LinkedIn is a great place to look for new opportunities. There are also job postings inside the Women of Project Management membership. Join today to seek your next role! 

7. Brush up on your professional skills.

If you find potential job matches, brush up on those skills required to perform the job well. Honestly, you should always keep up with your skills and continue to improve. But if there are additional skills needed for potential opportunities, make sure that you are ready and possess the skills necessary to interview and land a new role. 

8. Network!

Here comes the fun part! Networking is such a rewarding experience. Women who attended the first annual Women of Project Management Conference explained how beneficial it was to network with other industry professionals. You get to learn about various industries, job functions, and job opportunities. This is a vital step in freeing yourself from a toxic work environment. The second annual Women of Project Management Conference is happening in Atlanta, GA on August 24-26. Get your ticket here today!

9. Plan your exit.

Sis, don’t be impulsive when you have bills to pay. Create a solid plan and execute it as you would with anything else. Identify risks and your plans to mitigate them. 

10. Gracefully resign.

Be graceful, and professional, and do not burn bridges when giving your resignation. This is your chance to take control of your life and happiness like a boss.

By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae

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