Launching 'Am I a Toxic Boss?' self-assessment, conversation starters with your boss and more
Over the last three months, "A Better Brussels" brought together people from across the EU policy world to look into how bosses in our policymaking space create safe, seen, and supported workplaces so that we can all deliver our best work and potentially make Brussels a shining example for others.
We heard from teams and bosses alike about the struggles, pressures, and aspirations that define work in our niche environment.
While there’s no one answer for us all, the themes that surfaced were clear. People want realistic workloads, contributions that are valued, and bosses who prioritise psychological safety above favouratism.
We know we can’t create safe, seen, and supported workplaces without introspection.
We need to speak up during the year-end reviews chat and be listened to.
"But how and where should I start? And do you have anything that summarises what everyone shared?" you ask.
Introducing tools for change for a better workplace:
1️⃣ How can EU bosses do better? - report: This report synthesises all the rich insights gathered during our listening sessions.
It’s an honest look at what people across Brussels want to see in their workplaces, focusing on practical changes that address real needs, from managing workloads more effectively to creating an environment where people feel safe to speak up.
2️⃣ Conversation Starters for that end-of-year review chat with your boss: Review season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to have open, honest conversations about what matters to you.
These conversation starters are designed to help both employees and bosses navigate topics that can sometimes be challenging—like workload capacity, team dynamics, and career goals—ensuring these reviews are as productive as they are meaningful.
3️⃣ 'Am I a Toxic Boss?' self-assessment*: We created this tool to help bosses take a step back and reflect on their own practices. Are you offering your team the support they need to thrive?
Are you creating an environment where everyone can bring their best to the table? This self-assessment is designed to encourage reflection and identify areas for growth without judgement, helping bosses and aspiring leaders understand where they stand on the “enabling best work meter.”
We have also been busy publishing thought leadership on what makes a standout boss in Brussels. In the post, we share that leading well in Brussels means listening deeply, building trust, and respecting the unique challenges each team member faces.
We hope these tools will inspire bosses and leaders-to-be to take these steps, making the workplace culture in Brussels one that truly prioritises the people who make incredible work happen.
Major thanks to these incredible folks for leveraging their experiences and know-how to inspire change and support those impacted by workplace toxicity. Remember, A Better Brussels is also about self-reflection; none of us are perfect.
*The self-assessment has been inspired by ian Hallett’s incredible work at Leaders of the People
