How to Spot (and Avoid) Toxic Industry Relationships

In any industry, building strong relationships is crucial, but not every connection is worth keeping. Some can drain your energy, stunt your progress, or harm your career. Here’s how to spot and avoid toxic relationships that can hold you back.

One-Sided Interactions

Toxic relationships are often marked by an imbalance in effort. If someone constantly asks for favors or attention but never reciprocates, that’s a clear red flag. Healthy relationships are mutually beneficial, with both parties contributing to each other’s success.

Undermining Your Confidence

Sometimes we all need constructive criticism, especially in areas where we need help. True team members or friends will be honest with you, but they’ll do so from a loving and supportive place. Being direct is okay, but breaking someone down is never a sign of friendship. It's okay to question your decisions or talents, but passive-aggressive comments can slowly chip away at your self-esteem. A person who truly has your best interest at heart will help teach you, or if it’s not a good fit, they’ll simply walk away. Remember, not everyone is meant for everyone.

Disrespecting Your Time

Unreliable people—those who cancel plans, show up late, or don’t follow through—are a liability. Your time is valuable, and those who consistently disregard it aren’t someone you should keep in your circle.

Creating Drama

People who thrive on gossip, manipulation, or conflict will drain you. If your interactions with someone are consistently filled with emotional highs and lows, it’s a sign they may be toxic. Healthy relationships shouldn’t involve constant chaos.

Lack of Accountability

Someone who refuses to own up to their mistakes or blames others for their failures is not someone you want in your professional life. Accountability is key to growth, both personally and professionally. Without it, progress is impossible.

Jealousy and Insecurity

A toxic person will celebrate your failures and downplay your successes. Instead of supporting you, they may try to make you feel guilty for achieving something or attempt to dim your shine. Success should be celebrated, not met with passive-aggressive remarks or efforts to tear you down. It’s normal for someone to wish they had the same opportunities, but if they make you feel like they aren’t happy for you, it’s worth reevaluating where that’s coming from. Ask yourself if it's malicious or just human nature.

Manipulation

Gaslighting, a tactic where someone tries to make you question your own reality, is common in toxic relationships. If someone consistently distorts facts or makes you feel irrational for having concerns, they’re not acting in good faith.

Short-Term Focus

Toxic people are often only interested in what they can get from you right now. If they push you into decisions that benefit them in the short term, but compromise your long-term goals, it’s a sign they’re not invested in your growth.

How to Avoid Toxic Relationships

Set Boundaries: Be clear about what you will and won’t accept. Establishing boundaries early on can prevent toxic behavior from taking root.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore your gut feelings when it comes to people who make you uncomfortable.

Say No When Necessary:You don’t have to accept every opportunity or relationship. Saying “no” is an important way to protect your time and energy. If people get upset with your “no,” that’s a them problem.

Surround Yourself with Positivity: Build a network of people who genuinely support you and contribute positively to your life and career. Go where things grow and you are watered.

Evaluate Relationships Regularly: Relationships change, and it’s important to reassess your connections. If someone is no longer aligned with your goals or values, it’s okay to let go.

Toxic relationships can hinder your growth and success. Recognize the signs—one-sidedness, undermining behavior, lack of accountability—and avoid people who drain your energy or compromise your goals. Protect your time, trust your instincts, and prioritize connections that foster mutual growth and respect.