Bullying takes many shapes and forms, it can be verbal or non-verbal abuse. Intimidation, relentless teasing and disrespectful actions are among these abuse. And most of the time, their actions are always covert and not all victims are brave enough to conceal it. Of course this is not an isolated case between boss-employee relationship but also, peer-to-peer bullying is the most common situation in workplace bullying.
If you are in a tough situation like this at work, would you know what to do?
According to an AARP jobs expert, Kerry Hannon, 1 in 3 workers are really having a tough time at work because of workplace bullies, and in her article, she wrote ways you can to do protect yourself from these disrespectful people.
Once you are able to identify the situation as bullying, think thoroughly what is really happening. Would you consider that you may also be triggering the bully’s bad behavior? He might really have a very bad attitude even outside the workplace? Consider that, you may also have a responsibility in his actions. Are you the only one receiving such treatment? There are a lot of factors to consider to size up the situation. Identify all points of actions to be sure that it really is workplace bullying.
Upon identifying, make sure to document what’s happening. All unfavorable situations should be recorded.
You can also talk to the bully. Make sure that you are confident enough to face the person who is always giving you a hard time at work. A good one-on-one talk without any physical violence.
If a good hearty talk didn’t work, time to consider telling your situation to the department who handles all employees welfare. That will be the Human Resource department. They should take action after their own thorough investigation.
All four steps are included in you Plan A. Now, if this Plan A doesn’t work out well, time to think of your Plan B. If Plan A’s result if unfavorable to you and searching for another workplace is your Plan B, that is entirely up to you. Be a professional in leaving your current workplace though, don’t spread that you’ll be leaving your post.
For more elaborate explanation of Kerry Hannon’s article, simply click here.