Speaking Up – Dealing with Bullying Behaviour.

Our theme for 2025 is Speak Up. There is a word we hear a great deal these days – bullying. Let’s be sure you feel ready if this word arises in your workplace. If in the course of your discussions the issue of people feeling bullied arises here is some information. In this blog we’ll look at the importance of dealing with bullying behaviour and what to do, and not do, about it.

In the Workplace

Workplace bullying is a pervasive issue that can have serious consequences for both individuals and organizations. It is essential to address and manage bullying effectively to create a healthy and productive work environment.

Understanding Workplace Bullying

Workplace bullying is any repeated, harmful behavior aimed at a person or group. It is meant to undermine, intimidate, or humiliate the person on the receiving end of it. Unlike normal disagreements or conflicts, workplace bullying tends to happen slowly over time, creating a hostile work environment for the person or people involved. Bullying can take many forms, including verbal, psychological, physical, cyber, and professional bullying.

The Impact of Workplace Bullying

The effects of workplace bullying are far-reaching. It can lead to serious mental and physical health issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, high blood pressure, and gastrointestinal problems. Bullying creates a place where individuals are constantly afraid and unable to be themselves, leading to decreased job satisfaction and productivity. Moreover, bullying can erode trust within the organization, making it difficult for employees to collaborate effectively and achieve their goals.

Why Addressing Bullying is Crucial

Dealing with bullying behaviour in the workplace is often painful and difficult, but it is necessary for the well-being of both employees and the organization. Confronting this issue requires courage and skill, and organizations must have clear processes for identifying and managing bullying behaviour. If serial bullying succeeds, it can consume much of the creative and productive efforts of the organization, ultimately destroying its effectiveness. Therefore, it is essential to differentiate between bullying and other behaviours that may look similar, ensuring that staff and management can effectively stop and prevent bullying.

Big Picture Strategies

To effectively address workplace bullying, organizations should implement the following strategies:

1. Establish Clear Policies and Procedures: Develop and promote expectations for appropriate behaviour and create reporting procedures for workplace bullying. Ensure that employees are aware of these procedures and their specific roles and responsibilities.
2. Promote a Positive Work Culture: Encourage a culture of respect, inclusion, and collaboration. Use tools like SNIP© (Stop, Notice, Inquire, and Plan) to help employees manage their reactions and align their intentions, thoughts, feelings, and actions.
3. Provide Training and Support: Offer training sessions on recognizing and addressing bullying behaviour. Provide support for employees who have experienced bullying, including counseling and mediation services.
4. Take Swift Action: When bullying is identified, take immediate and appropriate action to address the behaviour. This may include disciplinary measures, reassignment, or termination of employment.

When dealing with this behaviour, it’s crucial to avoid certain actions that can exacerbate the situation. Here are some things not to do:

1. Do Not Respond with More Bullying: Reacting with aggression or bullying back can lead to further problems and escalate the situation. People who choose to bully others often seek a reaction, and responding aggressively can give them the power they crave.
2. Do Not Keep It to Yourself: Hoping that the bullying will go away on its own is not effective. It’s important to report the bullying to a supervisor, HR, or another authority figure who can help address the issue.
3. Do Not Skip Work or Avoid Activities: Avoiding work or activities because of fear can impact your professional growth and well-being. Instead, seek support and take steps to address the bullying.
4. Do Not Blame Yourself: Remember that bullying is not your fault. No one deserves to be bullied, and it’s important to recognize that the issue lies with the perpetrator, not with you.
5. Do Not Get Angry or Sarcastic: Avoid getting angry or sarcastic in your response. Instead, try to remain calm and composed, and respond assertively without aggression.
6. Do Not Isolate Yourself: Isolating yourself can make you more vulnerable to bullying. Instead, stay connected with trusted friends and colleagues who can provide support and protection.
7. Do Not Ignore this inappropriate behaviour: While it may be tempting to ignore or attempt to placate the person, it’s important to address the behaviour and seek help from authority figures if necessary.

By avoiding these actions, you can better manage the situation and take steps to address and prevent bullying in the workplace.

In addition to the strategies mentioned, it’s important to understand the underlying reasons why adults bully others in the workplace. Factors such as low self-esteem, jealousy, and fear of exposure can drive bullying behaviour. Recognizing these factors can help in developing effective interventions and support systems. By implementing these best practices, organizations can create a safer and more supportive work environment for all employees.

Questions to ask:

• What makes you feel comfortable and supported in our workplace?
• What makes you feel uncomfortable in our workplace?
• What have you done about it when you feel uncomfortable?
• Would you like to learn about next steps and options?

Conclusion

Dealing with bullying behaviour in the workplace is essential for creating a healthy and productive work environment. By implementing clear policies, promoting a positive work culture, providing training and support, and taking swift action, organizations can effectively manage and prevent workplace bullying.

Resources

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has many practical and helpful resources available.
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/bullying.html

We are living in challenging times. I hope that this information and tools may be helpful in strengthening our organizations and country.

With gratitude,

Kathleen Redmond MA, MCC
kr@centreforcharacterleadership.com
905.478.7962

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