Earning a living warrant one to work. Whether you are an entrepreneur, sole proprietor, or work for a firm; one thing is synonymous and that’s working with people as no man is an island. While some of this work-relationship encourage and bring out the best in you, some others are just workplace bullies. Wondering who a workplace bully is? Read on as we discuss All You Need To Know About Workplace Bullying And How To Deal with It.
Table of Contents
Who Is A Workplace Bully?
A workplace bully is someone who engages in aggressive, intimidating, or abusive behavior toward colleagues or subordinates in a work setting. This behavior can take many forms, such as verbal abuse, physical intimidation, or exclusion from group activities or meetings.
Workplace bullying can cause significant harm to individuals, including increased stress, anxiety, and depression, and can negatively impact workplace productivity and morale.
Examples of Workplace Bullying
Workplace bullying can take many forms, some of which may be subtle and hard to identify. Here are some examples of workplace bullying:
- Verbal abuse: This can include yelling, swearing, or belittling comments directed at an employee.
- Intimidation: It is displayed via threatening behavior, physical gestures, or other actions intended to intimidate or frighten an employee.
- Exclusion: Majorly expressed by deliberately excluding an employee from meetings, social events, or other work-related activities.
- Undermining work: This can involve sabotaging an employee’s work or efforts to advance in their career. An example includes spreading false rumors or withholding critical information.
- Micromanaging: This can involve excessive scrutiny or control over an employee’s work. Including constant monitoring, criticizing minor details, or changing project requirements without clear justification.
- Cyberbullying: This can include using social media, email, or other electronic communication to harass or intimidate an employee.
How to deal with workplace bullying
Dealing with workplace bullying can be challenging, but here are steps you can take to protect yourself and address the situation. Here are some tips:
- Document the bullying: Keep a record of any incidents of bullying, including the date, time, location, and details of what was said or done. This information can be useful if you need to report the behavior to your supervisor or HR department.
- Talk to someone: If you feel comfortable, consider speaking to someone you trust about the bullying, such as a friend, family member, or colleague. You could also consider speaking to a therapist or counselor for additional support.
- Confront the bully: If you feel safe doing so, consider confronting the bully and letting them know that their behavior is unacceptable. Be clear and assertive, but try to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation.
- Report the bullying: If the bullying persists or escalates, it may be necessary to report it to your supervisor or HR department. Be sure to provide specific examples and any documentation you have gathered.
- Take care of yourself: You are all you have. No doubt workplace bullying can be emotionally and mentally draining. Be sure to take care of yourself by eating well, exercising regularly, and seeking support from friends and family.
Conclusion
It is important for organizations to have policies and procedures in place to prevent and address workplace bullying, and for individuals who are experiencing bullying to seek support and take steps to protect themselves.
It is important to mention that some perpetrators of these acts don’t entirely know how their action affects others. As you read this, do a self-check on yourself and make your work environment for everyone to thrive.
What other ways have you dealt with a workplace bully?