It’s a sad fact of life that bullying no longer stops at the school gate. As a result many of us find ourselves dreading going to work each day. We dread at another week of bullying in the workplace. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), in 2006, found evidence that 20% of employees had been bullied in the last 5 years. A University of Manchester study put the number as high as 25% and in the last 6 months was 1 in 10. In addition of those interviewed 50% had seen bullying at work.
Especially in the current climate with employees aware that jobs may be going can you imagine the extra stress of worrying about what will be said to you or about you today. You have those bills to pay so you put up with it.
Bullying at work can take many forms there isn’t a simple definition. It isn’t always your boss or supervisor. It could be a group who exclude you, perhaps because of some other perceived difference.
However, you have a right to be treated with dignity and respect. But you need the job what can you do. Bullies like to be in control, in part because of their own issues. Often you are seen as a threat (to clever, better at the job than them and so forth)
What can I do about it?
Getting support will make a difference. Even just the fact that someone else knows will give you some power over the situation and someone to talk to about your feelings. Don’t suffer in silence.
Because your employer has a duty of care they need to do something about the problem. In reality you will face 3 choices:
- Resign, get away from the problem
- Accept what is happening, because you can’t leave
- Take action against the bully.
This seems the obvious thing to do but of course there are consequences if the decision goes against you or if others in the office take sides.
You can make a formal complaint about the bully. It will help if there are bullying and harassment procedures. If you go to an employment tribunal, they will expect that you have taken all the steps your company offers to resolve the issue before coming to them, so even if it seems hopeless you need to take this step.
It is important if you are going to take action that you keep records, dates, times, witnesses. Keep copies of emails or documents.
You will need the support of others, while you may be able to rely on family or friends, remember that there are other options; your GP, or a counsellor