Leaving a toxic workplace is like letting go of an emotionally abusive ex. You’re sort of battered, and your confidence is at an all-time low. Sometimes, you think you weren’t doing your job correctly, not that they were being unfair. Trying to look for a new job with this mindset can be taxing. There’s also the fear of ending up somewhere like your previous job.
So, let’s discuss how you can begin your healing journey after leaving a toxic workplace.
How to Recover from a Toxic Workplace
1. Remember why
There must have been a specific kind of aggression that made you leave your workplace– it could be being micromanaged, continuously being forced to work overtime without sufficient compensation, or racial aggression, for that matter.
Remember the reason you decided to leave your workplace. When you’re searching for a job on BCjobs, this knowledge will save you from falling into the same trap again.
When you get a new job, you will be going in with a clearer mind. You know what you expect from your employers and colleagues this time, and you’re unlikely to bear the same behavior.
Even during interviews, take the time to ask them questions in return. Verify that the office culture and policy aren’t like your previous job.
2. Write down your good qualities
If your previous job left you feeling inadequate, you might hesitate to take jobs you’re more than qualified for. Take some time to discover your worth.
Not down your accomplishments professionally and personally– from the first job or project you ever undertook. Think about what made you so good at your previous jobs, the moments you can think of as absolute triumphs. List down why you’re good at your last job, even if they didn’t realize your worth.
This exercise will also help you update your resume in a new light. You’re halfway prepared for the interview questions now. You’ll also have more success in screening jobs. There would be more focus on jobs that require strength from your side.
3. Take some time off
If you can afford to, you shouldn’t go into a new position immediately after leaving the new one. Take the time to relax and do activities that make you happy. A refreshed, positive mind will go a long way in your job search.
4. Curate your network
Who in your previous job made you feel safe? And who was the one you couldn’t wait to be away from, even if they were in a managerial position?
Let go of the toxic people. You don’t have to keep in touch with them. Doing so would only mess with your mind.
At the same time, make a list of people who you admire in the industry. If they can write you a recommendation letter, even better. Keep in touch with them through social media or personal emails.
Add to your network beyond the previous job. Connect with mentors and supportive people. If you ever start feeling trapped in your new job, you will have them to back you up. Knowing you have them will also let you feel more confident in your new workplace.
5. Focus on having a positive attitude
It’s essential to make yourself remember good things happen. Whatever happened in your previous job won’t follow you. Try and practice remembering the good things about yourself. Focus on new opportunities and less on the past.
Also, take the time to set boundaries. Evaluate how you act around the office too. If you didn’t like people gossiping about you in the previous job, you shouldn’t do it to others either.
This attitude also goes a long way in landing you a new job. The interviewers can feel your positive energy.
Final Thoughts
You’re an experienced person now. You know how you want to be treated, and you want others to have the same opportunities. Use your learning to look out for others in the office who might be in the same position. Of course, we should look for a job first with BCJobs.
About the Author
BCjobs.ca is Western Canada’s largest job board, with the majority of the jobs coming from Vancouver. For nearly 20 years, BC Jobs has connected job candidates with companies looking to add talent to their teams. Here at BCJobs, we understand that looking for a job is difficult. To support our candidates, we recently launched a podcast to help you stand out during your job application. Listen to weekly episodes on our podcast to hear what recruiters are thinking and what companies look for when considering their next hire.
