Workplace Bullying - What You Can Do?

While most people associate bullying with schools and playgrounds, it does not end there. It can manifest itself in the workplace as well. Bullying can take many forms such as physical, verbal, psychological or emotional.

Bullying can include name-calling, yelling, spreading rumours, hurtful gossip or innuendos. It can create a hostile work environment for others even if they are not the one being bullied. It brings about a negative attitude towards work and therefore low productivity.

There are several ways to deal with bullying in the workplace. They are:

• SET BOUNDARIES:

Set boundaries between yourself, your coworkers and bosses. Let them know when it’s okay to be friendly and when to be professional.

• TALK TO YOUR SUPERVISOR:

Talk to your supervisor and come up with a solution to the problem. It is now mandatory for all companies to have a HR department which deals with such complaints. File a complaint with the department and push them to take further action.

• FOSTER A GOOD TEAM ATMOSPHERE:

Ensure a good working environment for all employees. Teach employees about how to work well with others as well as how to maintain a positive work atmosphere.

• BUILD A SUPPORT SYSTEM:

When there is an incident of bullying, it always helps to not have to face it alone. Build a relationship with your co-workers. This way when another employee is bullying you, you will have the support needed to stop them from doing so.

• KNOW WHAT YOU CAN AND CANNOT CONTROL:

When someone is bullying you, know what you can and cannot control in the situation. For example, you cannot control what the other person does or says, but you can control what you say and how you react. Your reaction will either stop the bully from repeating the act or fuel his/her reason to bully.