Bullying in the Workplace

If you are a victim of workplace bullying, it is your obligation and your right to report the harassment to your superiors. Bullying in the workplace happens to different people in many different ways. It can come in the form of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, ridicule, rumors or the use of an intimidation factor. Bullying in the workplace can come from just one individual, or in worst cases, more than one person can be causing the harassment. Many times, those in a position of authority such as a manager or supervisor can abuse their position by harassing an employee thinking as though they can get away with it without suffering any ramifications. The good news is, if you have been a victim of this kind of bullying in your office, there are many steps you can take to get the justice you deserve and to ensure that you continue in a job that you feel passionate about.

If the harassing is coming from only one person and you feel comfortable and safe enough with them, try confronting them about the bullying, asking them why they have such an issue with you and what you can both do to ease the situation. If you have a confidante in your office that is aware of the harassment, you may wish to have them there during the conversation to offer moral support and to protect you if things escalate or get out of hand. If your superior is the one doing to harassing, do not try to confront them. They are in a position of authority and can use that power to have you unnecessarily terminated. It is wisest to go directly to your Human Resources Department or to your supervisor’s boss to file a complaint and to get advice as to what they think you should do about the situation. Make sure you have enough evidence to support your claims as you can no doubt bet that there will be instant denial from your supervisor or co-worker that the harassment ever took place.

Stand tall and strong in your convictions, knowing that you did nothing wrong and that you are the victim in this scenario, not the other way around. Sending a message that workplace bullying will not be tolerated sends a clear message to others within the company that that kind of behavior is unacceptable.