Workplace bullying is a serious problem that affects many employees. Studies show that the number of reported cases has increased over the past ten years. It’s important to recognize the signs of workplace bullying and take action. Here are ten signs that your coworkers might be bullying you, along with advice on how to handle each situation:
- Isolation and Exclusion
Sign: You’re consistently left out of meetings, social gatherings, or important conversations related to work.
What to do: Document instances of exclusion and approach your supervisor or HR to discuss the pattern of behavior [3]. - Spreading Rumors or Gossip
Sign: You frequently hear negative rumors about yourself circulating in the office.
What to do: Confront the source of the gossip calmly and professionally. Keep a record of incidents and report them to HR if the behavior persists [4]. - Verbal Abuse or Aggressive Communication
Sign: Coworkers use harsh language, yell, or send aggressive emails to you.
What to do: Stay calm and assertive. Document the incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses. Report the behavior to your supervisor or HR [2]. - Undermining Your Work
Sign: Colleagues consistently criticize your abilities or take credit for your ideas and accomplishments.
What to do: Keep detailed records of your work and contributions. Speak up in meetings to ensure your ideas are attributed to you. If the problem persists, discuss it with your manager [5]. - Excessive Criticism or Micromanagement
Sign: You’re subjected to constant, unfair criticism or micromanagement from coworkers who aren’t your superiors.
What to do: Document specific instances and discuss the issue with your direct supervisor. Request clear performance expectations and regular feedback [3]. - Withholding Information
Sign: Coworkers intentionally withhold important information or resources necessary for your job.
What to do: Keep a log of instances where information was withheld. Proactively communicate with your team and supervisor to ensure you’re included in information sharing [5]. - Intimidation or Threats
Sign: You experience subtle or overt threats, or feel intimidated by certain coworkers.
What to do: Take any threats seriously. Report them immediately to HR and consider seeking legal advice if the behavior is severe [4]. - Sabotage or Interference with Work
Sign: Coworkers deliberately sabotage your work or create obstacles that prevent you from doing your job effectively.
What to do: Document specific incidents of sabotage. Communicate clearly with your supervisor about the challenges you’re facing and seek their support in addressing the issue [2]. - Public Humiliation
Sign: You’re frequently embarrassed or humiliated by coworkers in front of others.
What to do: Remain professional and composed. Address the behavior privately with the individual first. If it continues, report it to HR and provide documented examples [5]. - Unreasonable Workload or Demands
Sign: Coworkers consistently push their work onto you or set unrealistic expectations.
What to do: Clearly communicate your workload and limitations. Discuss the issue with your supervisor and request a fair distribution of tasks [3].
General Advice for Dealing with Workplace Bullying:
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all bullying incidents, including dates, times, locations, witnesses, and specific behaviors [2].
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies on workplace bullying and harassment [4].
- Seek Support: Confide in trusted colleagues, friends, or family members. Consider seeking professional help if the bullying is affecting your mental health [6].
- Report the Behavior: If addressing the issue directly with the bully doesn’t work, report the behavior to your supervisor or HR department [2].
- Use Available Resources: Take advantage of resources like the Workplace Bullying Institute or employee assistance programs offered by your company [4].
- Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries to coworkers and stick to them [6].
- Stay Professional: Maintain a professional demeanour, even when faced with bullying behaviour. This can help strengthen your case if you need to escalate the issue [3].
- Build a Support Network: Cultivate positive relationships with other coworkers to create a supportive work environment [2].
- Consider Legal Action: If the bullying is severe and your employer fails to address it adequately, consult with an employment lawyer about your options [4].
- Know When to Leave: If the bullying persists despite your best efforts and the situation becomes unbearable, it may be time to consider finding a new job in a more positive work environment [4].
Remember, workplace bullying is never acceptable, and you have the right to a safe and respectful work environment. By recognizing the signs of bullying and taking appropriate action, you can protect yourself and contribute to creating a healthier workplace culture for everyone.
Citations:
[1] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/workplace-bullying-ignoring-bullies-doesnt-worktry-instead-kim-scott
[2] https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/bullying.html
[3] https://yourerc.com/blog/20-subtle-signs-of-workplace-bullying/
[5] https://www.caseiq.com/resources/10-signs-that-one-of-your-managers-is-a-workplace-bully/