CAREER’S CORNER: The cost of workplace toxicity on SA companies.

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GUEST - Lindiwe Sebesho, Managing Director at Remchannel

Workplace toxicity is more than just a human resources issue—it’s a direct threat to organisational performance and profitability. Absenteeism linked to workplace depression already costs the South African economy R19 billion annually. Employees aren’t just leaving toxic environments—they’re also disengaging while they stay, dragging down productivity and innovation.

As the world marks Anti-Bullying Day on 28 February, businesses must confront the growing toll of toxic work environments and prioritise psychological safety.
A study published by Remchannel in October 2024 revealed that permanent staff turnover in South Africa was 15.5% across all sectors, with 47% of this being due to resignations. Alarmingly, 27% of those that resigned cited relationship conflicts with their line manager including bullying or harassment, as their primary reason for leaving.
3 Mar 2025 2PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

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