Examples of Workplace Bullying – 21st Century Leadership

Workplace bullying frequently goes unreported because the signs can be so subtle that it's either unnoticed or brushed off as ordinary office tension. Though workplace bullying isn't as apparent as schoolyard harassment, its effects can still be devastating for the victims of it. All too often, victims and witnesses of workplace bullying do nothing to address it out fear of retribution or because they assume nothing can be done about it.

Here are just some examples of workplace bullying:

• Constantly criticizing a subordinate's actions. While constructive criticism is useful, harping on an employee no matter how well he or she performs can be extremely distressing.
• Spreading rumors. Even if a rumor turns out to be true, that doesn't mean the entire office needs to know about it.
• Shouting. Yelling generally does not belong in the workplace and does little to promote progress.
• Physical abuse. This is rare. That it's completely unacceptable under any circumstance goes without saying.
• Threatening. This can be discreet or flagrant. Again, there is never any reason to threaten a co-worker or subordinate.
• Taking away responsibilities, underworking. If this is done without cause, it can be interpreted as an attempt to make an employee feel down on him or herself.
• Overworking. Piling an unreasonable amount of work on employees can make them feel overwhelmed.
• Making an employee work more hours and not paying extra. If an hourly paid worker is forced to work extra hours without getting compensated for it, this is unacceptable. Of course, salaried employees and managers typically understand that they will not receive overtime pay for working extra hours.
• Invasions of privacy. Examples include rummaging through a worker's personal belongs, checking their emails and perusing the contents of their cell phones without permission.
• Exclusion from matters that a worker should be included. Not only does this affect how well a person can do a job, it also creates a feeling of worthlessness.
• Setting an employee up for failure. Setting benchmarks for an employee that cannot possible be reached is cruel.

While some workplace bullies' intentions are mean-spirited, others do not realize the pain they're causing and may believe they're doing their jobs. Likewise, many victims of workplace bullying do not think anything can be done about their situations and will not do anything to change it because they cannot afford to lose their incomes. Proactive measures and training are required to prevent workplace bullying.

Start Preventing Workplace Bullying Now!

Workplace bullying will not disappear without action. Now is the time to act. To set up a consultation, contact 21st Century Leadership by calling (603) 226-WORK or fill out our brief request form.