Bullying in the workplace is a highly concerning issue that can have detrimental effects on employees and the overall performance of an organisation. It is a problem that can be seen across all industries and job levels, and it can be difficult to identify and address. Workplace bullying is defined as repeated and unwarranted behaviour that causes physical or emotional harm to an employee.
Where this can stem from
The behaviour can come from a co-worker, supervisor, or even a customer. It can range from verbal abuse and intimidation to physical violence and harassment. The consequences of workplace bullying can be severe and long-lasting, including decreased productivity, high rates of absenteeism, and turnover of employees.
Employer responsibility to staff
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe and respectful workplace for their employees, and to address any instances of bullying that may occur. However, many organisations struggle with recognizing and dealing with workplace bullying. Employees sometimes feel they cannot speak up for fear of retaliation, and managers may not have the necessary training or resources to properly handle the situation.
Identifying Potential Bullying Behaviours
The first step to identifying bullying behaviours is to understand what they are. Bullying can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical intimidation, isolation, and exclusion. It can also manifest as persistent criticism and nitpicking, sabotaging work, and spreading rumours or gossip. However, the most common feature of workplace bullying is that it happens repeatedly and over time. It can leave victims feeling helpless, anxious, and isolated, affecting their productivity and overall well being.
Understanding bullying in the workplace
Despite the prevalence of workplace bullying, many organisations fail to adequately address the issue or provide sufficient support for affected employees. Some may view bullying as a normal part of the workplace culture, while others may be unaware of the impact it can have on mental health, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Understanding the consequences of workplace bullying is essential for both employers and employees to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.
Consequences
The consequences of workplace bullying can range from decreased job satisfaction and productivity to serious mental and physical health consequences. As such, it is essential for employers, managers, and employees to understand the real-world implications of this and take steps to prevent it.
Strategies for confronting or reporting bullying
Unfortunately, many people who experience bullying may not know how to confront or report it effectively. We suggest raising a grievance. In order to effectively manage employee grievances, it is imperative that a well-crafted policy be readily available for reference. Ignoring such matters may prove detrimental to your organisation, potentially resulting in costly consequences if not addressed with due diligence and expertise. An employee who feels so aggrieved could also bring a claim in the employment tribunal against the organisation.
Call us today for any queries you might have
If you have any questions about anything you’ve read, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or follow us on LinkedIn for more helpful advice like this.
