Do you have the Sunday evening dreads about going to work tomorrow because other members of staff are making your life miserable? I see you. I have been you. It contributed in no small part to my breakdown in 2010.
Cliquey, bullying behaviour which seeks to exclude and target should have no place in the workplace
And whilst for those who engage in it, it may seem like a bit of harmless bitching, and game playing, can I remind you that our latest survey showed that 8% of the 3,000 that responded to our bullying survey admitted to suicidal thoughts because of it.
You may not be the ringleader, but if you see it and are not speaking out against it, you are still part of the problem. For the person being bullied, it feels like everyone is against them.
And whilst it might seem easier to not get on the wrong side of the bully and you may be nervous about standing up to them, the only way to combat bullying is to stand up to it, shine a light on it and make it unacceptable.
We’re not in school anymore – although it can sometimes feel like it. Mean girl behaviour has no place in an office.
So if this post has touched a nerve, and you find yourself in a group where someone is being bullied, it’s essential to take action and help promote a positive and supportive environment. Here’s some advice:
1. Recognize the situation: Acknowledge that bullying is occurring and understand the impact it can have on the victim’s well-being. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward addressing it.
2. Don’t participate: Refuse to engage in or contribute to the bullying behavior. Avoid making negative comments, spreading rumors, or actively participating in any form of mistreatment. By not joining in, you demonstrate that you do not condone such behavior.
3. Speak up: Use your voice to speak out against bullying. Calmly and assertively express your disapproval of the behavior and let the group know that it’s not acceptable. Encourage others to do the same and support the victim.
4. Offer support to the victim: Reach out to the person being bullied privately and let them know you’re there for them. Offer your support, listen to their concerns, and reassure them that they don’t deserve the mistreatment they’re experiencing.
5. Encourage empathy and understanding: Promote empathy within the group by helping others understand the negative effects of bullying. Encourage them to consider how they would feel if they were in the victim’s shoes, fostering a sense of compassion and respect.
6. Report the bullying: If the situation persists or escalates, report the bullying to a trusted authority figure, such as a teacher, supervisor, or human resources department. Provide specific details about the incidents and any evidence you may have.
Remember, standing up against bullying can have a significant impact. By taking action, you contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.
