Team in many ways can be compared to machinery, the more smoothly it runs, the more effective it is, and the more advantageous it is for the organization in the long run. A good team leader can bring about a harmonious relationship within the team, between the co-workers, management and the customers. Toxic boss syndrome is the ill health in the intellectual and physical well being of the employees inflicted by the detrimental behaviour of a bad team leader.

The goodwill of the company balances on the effort put in by the team members directed towards the overall objectives of the firm. To ensure improved productivity; the existence of a well trained, deeply motivated team supported by an excellent work culture is inevitable. A ‘toxic boss’ may be selfish who does not care for the well being of his team members. His presence creates a negative attitude amongst the team members resulting in decreased productivity. To avoid falling into this vicious circle the company must identify the presence of the ‘toxic boss’ on a continuous basis.

Identification of the team with a low productivity rate is one way of identifying the presence of a de-motivating boss. Absence of a good leader exudes a negative air in the team leading to employee dissatisfaction. De-motivated workforce results in high employee turnover and customer dissatisfaction, ending up with lesser business for the company, thus shaking the very foundation of the company’s existence.

An unfriendly boss ignores the needs and aspirations of the other members producing a hostile working environment resulting in frustration. Inability to achieve personal goals has a direct impact on the general well being of the employee. Long hours, unhealthy working environment, all takes its toll on the professional and personal life of the team members. In many cases these leaders take the credit for the work done by the team members leading to higher level of resentment in the minds of the team members. This leader prefers to take control over the situations and the people. This cannot, however function in the long run as organisations depend on the team effort for the smooth flow of its operations.

Identification of ‘toxic bosses’ is therefore important for the success of the organisation. Pointing out those groups with a high labour turnover is a way of identifying them. The team members must be given the opportunity in evaluating the overall performance of the team leader as a mentor, guide and manager. This is an easy way of evaluating the performance of the team leader. Similarly an evaluation of customer satisfaction on the team’s performance gives a picture of how a team fairs before the eyes of the customer. An informal means of communication system is another best way of judging on the capabilities of the team leader.

The leader plays a major role in directing goal oriented, well motivated, highly energetic and enthusiastic work force towards productive purposes. Recognizing the leaders and channelling their efforts towards company goals is therefore vital for the success of the organisation.