Where Knowledge Rules

Jobs & Careers:

Managing Your Career

Get a Widget for this title

Do bullies still exist in the workplace?

Bullying. So you think that it probably has stopped after your High School Graduation? Well, think again. When you walk into your workplace, there will most likely be bullying, along with other negative behaviour. Whether it is through verbal abuse, minor physical abuse, or mental/emotional abuse, bullying still exists past the High School level. It exists in almost every workplace. We just most often tune it out, so it appears to be non-existent, but if we sat and watched everything that went on ine workplace, we may easily pick out the bullies and the type of conflicts that bring the bully to act.

The most common response to being bullied is the confrontation response. What ever has happened to walking away from the fighter? Are we afraid to appear weak? This won't show you have a weak side. In fact, it will show you are a responsible adult in your workplace.

It is best to approach the matter by gaining insight on the main issue or issues, and the interests of both sides - you and your bully. What are the interests of the "bully" and what are the interests of the "victim"? Perhaps the bully is jealous, and just wants to "get even". Let the bully know you are not there to fight, but in fact, you are there to listen and help when possible. This could place a whole new outlook on the bully's vision towards you. Open up positions to them, and try not to close doors up around them. This may cause the bully to feel threatened, and become more aggravated.

If you feel threatened by the bullying, there are options such as mediation, negotiation, and speaking to a Human Resources professional. You may be provided with advice and guidance. You could also, under anonymous status behind the back of your bully, speak to your manager about this issue.

If you are provided with the correct insight and approach your bully with a positive attitude, they may realize you are there to be a friend, not an enemy. Bullies tend to search for attention because they feel there is something missing. By being there, they may let you in on how they feel. That person may not even be a true bully after all.

Learn more about this author, Stacy Zahn.
Contact this writer Click here to send this author comments or questions.


Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:

Do bullies still exist in the workplace?

  • 1 of 34

    by Teris

    As children play in school grounds during the formative years they learn that intimidation works well and by tormenting

    read more

  • 2 of 34

    by Scott Hayden

    Threats, insults, name calling and public humiliation are more common in the workplace than ever before. Many of us have

    read more

  • 3 of 34

    by Colette Duval

    Bullying can take on many forms, it may be done overtly or taken to new heights of subtlety. It can be done in front of

    read more

  • 4 of 34

    by Sammy Stein

    Bullies exist not just in the work place but everywhere.

    However, at work is the one place where you cannot simply ignore

    read more

  • 5 of 34

    by Stacy Zahn

    Bullying. So you think that it probably has stopped after your High School Graduation? Well, think again. When you walk

    read more

View All Articles on:
Do bullies still exist in the workplace?

Add your voice

Know something about Do bullies still exist in the workplace??
We want to hear your view. Write_penWrite now!

Helium Debate

Cast your vote!

Should workers be held back by lack of formal schooling?

Click for your side.

171851

Featured Partner

Dogs Deserve Better

Dogs Deserve Better has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse Dogs Deserve B...more

What is Helium? | Buy Web Content | Contact Us | Privacy | User agreement | DMCA | User Tools | Help | Community | Helium’s Official Blog | Link to Helium

Helium, Inc.
200 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 USA