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UR Medicine / Employee Assistance Program / News & Events / UR Medicine EAP Blog / May 2025 / Avoid Passive-Aggressive Communication at Work

Avoid Passive-Aggressive Communication at Work

Passive-aggressive communication is distressing and contributes to poor morale, higher turnover, and lower productivity. Recognizing its impact and avoiding it can create a more positive workplace, reduce stress, and decrease burnout. Have you ever expressed yourself using passive-aggressive communication?
Below are common behaviors:
  • Sending emails to a coworker but copying in their supervisor
  • Withholding information
  • Using the silent treatment
  • Leaving notes that create distress (e.g., “See me” or “We need to talk”)
  • Giving a compliment containing a hidden insult (e.g., “Wow, good work for a newbie.”)
  • Using an insincere tone (e.g., “Yeah, sure, I’ll get that done pronto.”)
  • Undermining a positive relationship between two coworkers with gossip or falsehoods.
Steering clear of passive-aggressive communication is key to maintaining a harmonious workplace. By becoming mindful of our behaviors, we can each build stronger professional relationships.
 

5/15/2025

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