Synopsis
Peter J. Frost and Sandra Robinson’s “The Leader as Toxin Handler“ discuss the cost and effect of an individual leader responsible for shielding others from toxicity within the organization. They argued that leaders spend a great deal of their time and resources as toxin handlers, coaching and counseling others. In an organization riddled with organizational pain, toxin handlers interpret messages to the organization to not increase or add to the pain already felt by the organization.
In addition, they further delve into the effects these toxic leaders and toxic organizations have on the handler. They reported that some of their subjects experienced physical and psychological illnesses. As a human bridge, toxin handlers take on their people’s fears, anxieties, and anger. Frost and Robinson compared them to a priest of sorts. Holding others’ secrets and allowing them to walk away relieved.
Their focus is that toxin handlers, like any person, require outlets and mentoring. They, too, need someone to protect them and help them. The burden they carry is immense, and without co-workers, leaders, or other peers, they will burn-out potentially psychologically or physically.
Just My Thoughts
I’m not sure how many of you have ever experienced an environment like the one described in this article. I can attest, from my experience, Frost and Robinson are correct. The toll taken by a toxin handler is real. There are many (I know this is not proper etiquette, and I should provide the names of the “many,” but they will come in due time) researchers who discuss organizational pain, burn-out, employee emotions, etc. Still, I have yet to see or find much about the leaders’ welfare. Most argue the responsibility and role of the leader are to help or control these. None discuss the toll it takes to be a leader.
My point is, they have something here. Something I believe we should all be aware of. Something that happens more often than we believe, I think.
I’m sure you are not surprised, but I highly suggest you read their article. Frost and Robinson make a clear and solid case.