A workplace bully can drain your happiness instantly and impact your productivity, even if you're working your dream job. Workplace bullies drastically impact the morale of a company and can negatively affect an employee's confidence and ability to thrive on the job. Use the following strategies to stop bullying in its tracks and improve your workplace environment.
Assess the Situation
It might help to uncover the reasons why a co-worker or supervisor is a bully. Is a co-worker putting others down because he feels inadequate or unsuccessful? Does a colleague spread rumors or engage in negativity because she needs attention? Does a supervisor have the need for power and berates employees to feel a sense of accomplishment or superiority? Deciphering why the bullying occurs might help you better determine how to stop it in its tracks.
Identify the Target
Unfortunately, some people are just hostile in nature. Determine whether or not the bullying is targeted toward you specifically, a certain group of people or everyone at the office. Observe how the bully treats your co-workers. An unpleasant person who is difficult to work with usually targets more than one individual. You might not be the only one experiencing the bully's negative behavior and attitude. If you notice a pattern, report the behavior to a supervisor or top-level manager, and don't allow the employee's negativity to taint your positive approach to your job.
Stand Up to the Bully
Never allow workplace bullies to interrupt, ridicule or personally attack you at the workplace. Stand up to the bully, and maintain a high level of professionalism during the interaction. Explain that you expect all of your work associates to conduct themselves professionally, and point out the behavior that is unacceptable. Be polite when discussing the situation, and try not to get emotional. Phrases such as "I don't think your tone is appropriate" or "Please do not interrupt me during business meetings" communicates that you are taking a stand and setting expectations.
Maintain eye contact and stay calm when confronting your bully. It's also a good idea to express your desire to work cohesively with all associates, as this creates a more productive, enjoyable and positive work environment.
Document Interactions
If the instances of bullying happen often and you decide to report the behavior to a supervisor, make sure you have documentation of your interactions with the individual. As the bullying occurs, notate each incident. Jot down the date, time and location where the incident occurred, and briefly explain what happened. Focus on the facts surrounding the incident, and refrain from expressing your emotions. Quote exact phrases used by you and the bully, and document the duration of each interaction. Write down the names of any witnesses who were around when the incident occurred.
Report the Behavior
There is only so much you can do to stop an out-of-control bully. In extreme situations, your only option might be to get a supervisor or top-level manager involved. Present your documentation to a trusted supervisor or manager, and explain how the bullying impacts your performance and client interactions. Supervisors are more likely to take your claims seriously if you approach them professionally and present detailed documentation of each incident.
If the bully is your supervisor or manager, take your concerns to your company's human resources department. Human resources specialists are obligated to investigate any serious claims. This department also steps in if the bully tries to retaliate against an employee who files a legitimate complaint.
The best way to handle a workplace bully is to confront him. Maintain a polite and professional demeanor when confronting the bully, as employees who allow bullies to throw them into a fit of rage might be putting their professional career in jeopardy. Use the proper protocol for reporting incidents if you decide to file a claim. This helps to minimize the likelihood of the bully retaliating or harassing you during the investigation.
Photo Courtesy of Jesadaphorn at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!