Colleague clashes | Arguing workers could be healthy for culture, but only if HR is vigilant

If you’ve ever seethed at a colleague coasting through the week or bristled at a manager who takes credit for your work, you’re far from alone. According to new figures from Acas and YouGov, 49% of employees say the biggest source of anger at work is colleagues perceived as not doing their job properly. Another 44% point to others claiming credit for their efforts, while 39% blame over-demanding bosses and 37% cite rude behaviour.

At first glance, it paints a picture of toxic workplaces rife with simmering frustration. But dig a little deeper, and the reality may be more complex, and even a little more hopeful.

Because if people are angry about poor performance, credit-stealing, or bad behaviour, doesn’t that suggest they care? Not just about how they’re treated, but about the standards, fairness, and outputs of their workplace? In that sense, frustration could be a symptom of a deeper engagement with the job.

After all, the real danger in any organisation isn’t conflict, it’s apathy.