How to beat tall poppy syndrome at work
In workplaces with good company culture, colleagues celebrate each other’s success. However, many Australians say they’ve experienced the opposite: tall poppy syndrome. This cultural phenomenon, which is especially common in Australia, involves criticising or mocking people who stand out due to their talent or achievements.
What is tall poppy syndrome?
Tall poppy syndrome is the tendency for people to want to ‘cut down’ someone who stands out. In the workplace, it can look like jokes or offhanded remarks about a person who is doing well or being recognised for good work.
One in three Australian workers (33%) say they have experienced tall poppy syndrome at some point, and almost one quarter (23%) say it’s a problem in their current workplace. The phenomenon can have a big impact on individuals and teams, says Justine Alter, organisational psychologist and co-director of Transitioning Well.
“It often leads to self-doubt, imposter syndrome and anxiety. People begin to internalise criticism and question whether their success is deserved,” she says. “The emotional toll can lead to burnout, social withdrawal, reduced ambition or even resignation.”
Of those who’ve experienced tall poppy syndrome at work, 26% say it has stopped them from public speaking or presenting and 23% from sharing ideas in meetings.
Signs that you might be a victim of tall poppy syndrome include getting negative comments from your peers when you speak up, excessive criticism, criticism of your accomplishments (like receiving an award) or being excluded from team events or discussions.
How to deal with tall poppy syndrome at work
If you’re feeling singled out at work for doing well, here’s what you can do:
1. Remember it’s not a reflection on you
While it’s hard not to take negative comments personally, it’s important to remember that what people say reflects more about them than you, says Kristine Tuazon, director of Good People HR.
“It's easier said than done, and takes a bit of practice, but it’s helpful to be able to say, ‘You know what? That person has got something going on in their own life that’s making them act this way and it's got nothing to do with me’,” she says.
2. Look after your wellbeing
While it’s always important to focus on your own mental, physical and emotional health, this is even more crucial when you’re facing challenges.
Take the time to look after yourself, advises Tuazon, whether that’s spending time on a hobby you enjoy, catching up with friends or family, or taking a day off. Self-care when you need it will allow you keep doing your job to the best of your ability, help you shake off comments from colleagues.
3. Connect with supportive peers
It helps to get support from people you trust when you’re going through challenges. The same goes in the workplace, says Alter. Talking about what’s going on with others can help you process the situation, gain useful perspectives and get advice from others who might have been in similar positions.
“Focus on building relationships with people who genuinely want you to succeed, and seek feedback from trusted sources,” Alter advises. “Whether it’s a mentor, a friend or a peer group, having a support network can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.”
4. Consider speaking to a manager or HR
If the situation doesn’t improve, reach out to a trusted manager or HR. “If it’s really affecting you, then consider speaking to HR,” says Tuazon. “They’ll have to go through their investigative steps, similar to a bullying or harassment claim, and this can help to nip the behaviour in the bud.”
Tall poppy syndrome may be common in Australian workplaces, but that doesn’t mean it’s acceptable. If you feel it’s affecting your productivity or your wellbeing, it’s important to speak up.
5. Celebrate others
One of the best ways to combat tall poppy syndrome is to model the opposite behaviour, says Alter. Celebrate your peers’ successes and give credit generously, whether it’s congratulating them for a win in the break room or encouraging them when they succeed at something new. The more you model this behaviour, the more likely it is that others will follow suit.
“This not only helps build a positive team culture but can deflect attention from your own achievements and positions you as a team player,” says Alter.
Source: Independent research conducted by Nature of behalf of SEEK, interviewing 12,000 Australians annually. Published July 2025.
