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Bullying is not only confined to the schoolyard, but can be found in the workplace too.
There are a number of examples of workplace bullying, such as:
- Insulting or abusive comments and actions
- Spreading malicious rumours about someone
- Excluding or isolating someone
- Constant criticism
- Abusing one’s power over someone (targeted, overbearing supervision, overloading with work, blocking training opportunities, blocking paths to promotion, etc)
- Cyberbullying.
What to do if you are being bullied in the workplace
The most important thing to do is to decide to take action. Do not suffer in silence – you are entitled to work in a respectful, equally favourable environment. Here are a series of steps that you can take if you are being bullied in the workplace.
Name it
Decide on an accurate term to describe this behaviour. Is it bullying? Psychological harassment? Personal attacks? Gender discrimination? Having a clear understanding of what you are suffering will strengthen your argument.
Confront the bully/bullies
If and only if you feel comfortable doing so, confronting the bully may be enough to resolve the situation. They may not even be aware that their behaviour is causing such effects. If you choose to do so, do it in a calm and friendly, but firm manner, and again, be prepared to give specific examples and explanations.
Make a formal complaint
Many companies will have an official internal grievance process. Find out if yours does and follow it.
Compile evidence
Keep a diary of any incidents, including details like dates, times, witnesses, reactions, etc. Also keep a note of any related official files (emails, notes, medical records, etc.).
Seek advice
There are many options available. You can talk to a friend, your boss, a staff representative, a MISA representative, or a counsellor.
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