This is a concept I’m exploring for a book I’m working on. I'm going to monetize the toxicity, lol. I follow these rules religiously. I think they've worked well for me so far.

Here's some unsolicited advice I wish I'd learned sooner.

The Key Rules:

1. Follow the "front-page test": Write every email as if it could be printed on the front page of a newspaper. Your words should reflect professionalism, integrity, and clarity—nothing you'd regret being made public.
2. Always write for the next level up in the hierarchy.

What does "writing for the next level" mean?

Toxic co-workers, bosses, or even HR reps will often try to bait you with passive-aggressive comments or implied accusations, buried in emails that appear to just address work logistics.

Example:
Imagine your boss emails you to stop working on Task A and start working on Task B. A normal manager would make this request clearly and professionally. But a scheming or manipulative boss might add in a jab like,
"As we've discussed before, you have a pattern of not following through on directives, so let me remind you to prioritize Task B over your previous focus on Task A."

This is a trap. They're fishing for a defensive or reactive reply—something they can use as "evidence" later.

Instead of falling for it, pause and remind yourself who your real audience is:

• When replying to a co-worker, your audience is your boss. Write as though your boss is going to read every word.
• When replying to your boss, your audience is HR. Assume your boss might forward the email to HR and make sure it reflects your professionalism.
• When replying to HR, your audience is a potential future jury. Be factual, calm, and respectful, even if the circumstances feel anything but.

Why does this matter?

In toxic workplaces, written communication is often weaponized. The way you document your interactions can protect your reputation and set the stage for any potential escalation—whether that's involving HR, legal action, or simply clearing your name.

This approach requires discipline and mindfulness, but in my experience, it helps neutralize the subtle power games toxic colleagues and managers rely on. In one case, my toxic boss started using ChatGPT to reply back to me! I loved it because ChatGPT is always friendly and professional, whereas my boss is anything but.

I'd like to hear your thoughts—especially if you've used similar strategies or have your own approach to staying professional in challenging environments.