What can you do if you’re being bullied at WORK – PART 1
An increasing number of organizations are developing anti-bullying policies. If your workplace has a policy in place, follow it. If your workplace has no anti-bullying policy, the following suggestions will
• Tell the bully that his or her behavior is unwelcome and unwanted. To communicate your concerns effectively, follow these suggestions:
• Describe the offensive behavior, explain why it’s unacceptable and describe its effect on you.
• Focus on the problem not the person. Avoid blaming language such as, “You always...” Instead, describe the outcome: “When you criticize me in front of our customers, I feel like they lose confidence in my abilities.”
• Tell the bully firmly that you want the behavior to stop.
• If you need support to take this step, arrange for a witness to be present when you approach the bully.
• If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the bully in person, write a letter and send it by registered mail or courier. Keep the delivery receipt and a copy of the letter.
What can you do if you’re being bullied at WORK – PART 2
If the bullying continues, tell your supervisor. If your supervisor is the bully, tell your supervisor’s manager. Or speak with human resources staff or the person identified in your organization’s harassment policy. If your concerns are minimized, take them to the next level of management or to your union or professional association. Present your concerns in a professional, factual way.
Keep a factual journal of events. Record the date, time, witnesses, what happened (in as much detail as possible) and the outcome. A record of the number and frequency of events can help establish a pattern of bullying.
Keep copies of any letters, e-mails, memos or faxes you receive from the person.
Keep copies of performance appraisals or references that prove you can do your job. Continue doing your job to the best of your ability.
What can you do if you’re being bullied at WORK - PART 3
Avoid being alone with the bully. When you communicate with this person, stick to the issues and stay as calm as possible. Walk away if the bully threatens, scolds or belittles you.
Stay connected with your co-workers and others. Don’t let a bully isolate you. However, if you discover your co-workers are also targets, be very cautious about dealing with the bully as a group. Group action against the bully could be interpreted as mobbing or group bullying. Instead, co-ordinate your individual responses so the bully receives a consistent message that his or her actions are unacceptable.
Resist the urge to retaliate. It can make you look like a bully.
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