Johnny C. Taylor Jr. addresses your HR-related inquiries in this series for YSL News. Taylor serves as president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the largest HR professional association globally, and is the author of “Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”

Question: During team meetings, one colleague frequently interrupts and dismisses others’ contributions, while the manager fails to take any action. This has left other team members feeling frustrated and demoralized. What should we do when leadership permits this kind of negative behavior? – Isaiah

Answer: The workplace is inherently challenging and stressful. However, enduring a toxic work culture is unnecessary and demoralizing. When leadership neglects such issues, it can create a hostile atmosphere. Fortunately, there are ways to tackle this and enhance the workplace environment.

◾ Document what you observe: Keep a record of the instances where your colleague has been disruptive, noting specifics like dates, times, and their effect on team dynamics. Having this information can be vital if you decide to escalate the concern.

◾ Speak up: If you’re comfortable doing so, talk to your colleague about their behavior. A private conversation may allow you to voice your concerns and hear their side of the story. Be clear about how their actions affect the workplace atmosphere.

◾ Involve your manager: If discussing the matter with your colleague does not resolve the issue, consider bringing it up with your manager. Arrange a private meeting to express your concerns, sharing your observations about the negative implications of the behavior. If other teammates feel the same, encourage their participation in the discussion.

◾ Reach out to human resources: If your manager does not take action, consider consulting HR. They can provide advice on how to proceed and may step in on your behalf. HR can also investigate the matter and take necessary actions, such as filing a formal complaint or mandating further training.

◾ Take care of yourself: While it’s crucial to tackle toxic behaviors, safeguarding your own well-being is also vital. If the situation worsens and adversely impacts your mental health, seek support from a mental health expert.

Remember, you deserve a respectful and productive work environment. By being proactive and standing up for yourself, you can foster a healthier workplace culture.

I’ve always held full-time positions with employers throughout my career. Now, I’m in search of a new job but face challenges finding suitable full-time work. I’ve stumbled upon numerous contract and temporary roles. Are they worth pursuing? What are the pros and cons of taking on short-term jobs? – Joelle

In today’s competitive job market, you’re experiencing a common hurdle: fewer full-time openings. Job seekers often find themselves needing to refine their focus, but in your case, it could be beneficial to widen your search, as you’re looking for more opportunities. Contract and temporary positions can serve as great alternatives for gaining experience.

Although these roles may offer a higher hourly pay compared to full-time jobs, they come with notable considerations. Contract and temporary employment lacks the job security and predictability provided by traditional full-time positions. You must actively seek new projects to ensure a steady income.

Benefits are another important aspect to weigh. If you’re working directly for companies, you might have to find your own health insurance and benefits. However, partnering with a staffing agency often gives you access to group health insurance and other benefits after a specified period. Agencies can also connect you with a wider range of clients, boosting your chances of finding new roles.

Engaging in contract or temp work can offer several benefits as well. It typically allows for more flexibility, enabling you to select projects that resonate with your skills and interests. Moreover, this phase can be utilized to network, enhance your professional reputation, and develop new competencies. Such experiences enrich your resume and improve your prospects of securing a full-time role in the future.

Ultimately, whether you choose to pursue contract or temporary roles depends on your individual situation and career aspirations. If you’re open to flexibility and eager for new experiences, these short-term jobs can pave the way to your desired full-time position.