When the word bullying comes up, most think about those bullies on the playground as kids, and we go back to those days. We sometimes don’t think of bullying beyond that playground. What about bullying in the workplace. Have you ever thought that it exists.
Bullies in the workplace may look different than that mean kid back in school teasing you. Workplace bullying can take many forms, not just something physical, bullying can include verbal abuse, physical intimidation, verbal intimidation, social interactions, gaslighting etc.
Workplace bullies can be hidden in the workplace and can be at any position level. Sometimes we may see it as a sign of authority and not bullying, and we can’t tell ourselves when lines have been crossed. We second guess ourselves thinking that we are the problem, or our work isn’t good enough and we just have to do better for it to end.
Here are tips to identify and address workplace bullying:
Learn to recognize the signs of workplace bullying: Persistent criticism, exclusion from meeting or work related activities, sabotaging work projects, unprofessional facial expressions, critical or mocking in a direct or indirect way etc.
Speak up to a manager or HR department: Document incidents including dates and times and what was said or done for reference.
Seek Support: Coworkers, family and friends and/or mental health professionals. These forms of support will be really important if you do not feel comfortable to speak up to a manager or HR professional.
Set Boundaries: Reduce the amount of time needed to engage with the bullying behaviour. If you feel comfortable speak up to the bully directly. Don’t feel like you have to address them directly if the situation could escalate. Take other avenues if needed.
If you feel you have no where to turn professionally to file a complaint or if the bullying persists even after filing with your HR department. You can look into seeking legal assistance for next steps.
Always remember your mental health comes first and being bullied can have serious effects on your mental health. If you are experiencing symptoms like decreased productivity, increased absenteeism and low self esteem, it’s time to take a look at your work environment in a serious way.
If you are unable to get a resolution, know that there are other workplaces that would be lucky to have you as an employee. You don’t need to stay in a environment that is causing you stress and giving no support. Companies that take no action are essentially supporting bullying.
Know that you are not alone.
I thought I would share some of my personal experiences and maybe you are going through the same and this will help you to know you are not alone. Incidents I experienced include: Lack of being interacted with, having individual go to boss to ask questions instead of me directly, facial and verbal expressions, lack of compassion, avoidance in the hall, constant criticism and gaslighting. These are some of the ones that stand out the most for me. I felt lost, unmotivated, stomach sickness, high blood pressure, headaches, lack or increased appetite. I ultimately ended up leaving these positions for a better environment.
Companies need to start making a safe space for employees to talk about issues that are happening. They need to not be afraid to address bullying and they need to have consequences to bullying. Most say they have no tolerance for bullying, but how many actual deal with it.
Be Kind to yourself.
The Love Yourself Diary 