Dealing with a workplace bully can be a difficult and stressful situation, but it’s important to take action to protect yourself and address the behaviour. In this article, we will discuss how to identify workplace bullying, how to handle the situation and steps you can take to resolve the issue.
What is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying is defined as repeated, intentional behaviour that is intended to intimidate, offend, degrade, or humiliate someone in the workplace. This behaviour can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical intimidation, exclusion, and sabotage. Workplace bullying can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.
Identifying Workplace Bullying
If you are experiencing workplace bullying, it’s important to recognize the signs and take action to protect yourself. Here are some common signs of workplace bullying:
- Verbal abuse: This may include shouting, belittling, or making derogatory comments about an individual’s work or personal life.
- Physical intimidation: This may include standing too close, invading personal space, or making threatening gestures or facial expressions.
- Exclusion: This may include excluding an individual from meetings, events, or conversations, or refusing to work with them.
- Sabotage: This may include deliberately undermining an individual’s work, stealing credit for their ideas, or spreading false rumours or gossip.
- Constant criticism: This may include nitpicking, finding fault with everything an individual does, and criticizing them in front of others.
Resolving Workplace Bullying
Resolving workplace bullying can be a difficult and complex process, but there are steps you can take to address the behaviour and protect yourself. Here are some steps you can take to resolve workplace bullying:
- Speak with the bully: If you feel comfortable doing so, speak with the bully directly and explain how their behaviour is affecting you. Be clear and assertive, but also remain professional and avoid becoming emotional or aggressive. Ask them to stop the behaviour and provide specific examples of their actions.
- Document the behaviour: Keep a record of any incidents of bullying, including the date, time, location, and details of what happened. This information can be used as evidence when reporting the behaviour to your employer or HR department.
- Report the behaviour: If the bullying behaviour continues, report it to your employer or HR department. Provide them with your documentation and explain how the behaviour is affecting you and your work. Your employer should have a policy in place for dealing with workplace bullying.
- Work with your employer: If you have reported the bullying behaviour to your employer or HR department, work with them to find a resolution. They may investigate the behaviour, provide training for the bully, or take disciplinary action if necessary.
- Consider mediation: Mediation can be a useful tool for resolving workplace conflicts. A mediator can help you and the bully communicate and find a solution that works for both parties.
- Seek legal advice: If the bullying behaviour continues and your employer is not taking appropriate action, consider seeking legal advice. A lawyer can advise you on your rights and options for legal action.
- Take care of yourself: Dealing with workplace bullying can be stressful and can take a toll on your mental health. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Take care of yourself physically and emotionally by getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in self-care activities.
In summary, resolving workplace bullying requires taking action and seeking support. Document the behaviour, report it to your employer or HR department, and work with them to find a resolution. Consider mediation or legal action if necessary, and prioritize taking care of yourself throughout the process.