How To Deal With Bullying In The Workplace in 2023

Bullying in the workplace is an issue that’s been around for decades, and unfortunately, it’s still a reality today. The good news is that we’ve come a long way in terms of understanding its dynamics and knowing how to deal with it.

As we look ahead to 2023, it’s important to have a plan of action for tackling bullying in the workplace.

In this blog post, we will discuss what bullying looks like and how to go about addressing it, so that you can create a space where everyone can feel safe and respected. With the right strategies, you can help create a more inclusive environment where everyone is supported.

What is bullying?

1. Bullying is a form of repeated, unwanted and aggressive behaviour directed at an individual or group. It can happen in person or online and can be physical, verbal or psychological in nature.

2. Bullying can have a devastating effect on those who are targeted, causing them to feel isolated, anxious, depressed and even suicidal. It can also lead to problems with concentration, sleep and eating.

3. If you are being bullied at work, it is important to tell someone – whether that’s your manager, HR or a trusted colleague. You should also keep a record of what has happened, including dates, times and witnesses. This will help to build up a picture of what is going on and maybe crucial if you decide to take formal action.

4. Taking action against bullying can be daunting, but there are people and organizations who can help you through the process. Talk to your trade union representative if you have one, or seek advice from an employee assistance program or lawyer specializing in employment law.

The different types of bullying:

There are four different types of bullying: physical, verbal, emotional, and cyber.

Physical bullying is when someone uses their body or words to hurt someone else. It can be as simple as pushing or shoving, or it can be more severe, like hitting, kicking, or even sexual assault.

Verbal bullying is when someone uses words to hurt someone else. It can be things like name-calling, making racist or sexist remarks, making fun of someone’s appearance or disability, or threatening someone.

Emotional bullying is when someone tries to control or manipulate someone else through their emotions. This can be done by verbally putting them down, making them feel guilty, or manipulating them into doing something they don’t want to do.

Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology to hurt someone else. This can be done through social media, text messages, emails, or other online platforms. Cyberbullying can include things like name-calling and making fun of someone online, spreading rumours about them online, or sending mean or threatening messages.

How to identify bullying in the workplace:

If you’re being bullied at work, it can be hard to tell what’s happening. Bullying is a pattern of behaviour that can make someone feel uncomfortable, threatened, or unsafe. It can happen to anyone, no matter their job title or experience level.

There are many different types of bullying, but some common signs include:

Bullying in the workplace can take many forms, such as verbal abuse, aggression, manipulation, and exclusion. It can create a hostile work environment and have negative impacts on an individual’s mental health and well-being. If you suspect that you are being bullied in the workplace, it is important to pay attention to your feelings and behaviours. Some signs that you may be experiencing bullying in the workplace include:

1. Feelings of shame, fear, or anxiety when interacting with a particular coworker or supervisor: If you feel nervous or distressed when interacting with someone in your workplace, this may be a sign that you are being bullied. For example, if a coworker consistently belittles you in front of others or makes threatening comments, this could be considered bullying.
2. A sense of being threatened or intimidated by someone in your workplace: If you feel afraid or intimidated by someone in your workplace, this may be a sign of bullying. For example, if a supervisor raises their voice or gets physically close to you in an aggressive manner, this could be considered bullying.
3. Being excluded from social or professional activities or being isolated from your coworkers: If you feel left out or isolated from your coworkers, this may be a sign of bullying. For example, if you are consistently not invited to team meetings or social events, this could be considered bullying.
4. Persistent criticism or undermining of your work, even when it is of good quality: If you feel like your work is being unfairly criticized or undermined, this may be a sign of bullying. For example, if a coworker consistently criticizes your work, even when it is of good quality, this could be considered bullying.
5. Being unfairly given more work or responsibilities than your coworkers: If you feel like you are being unfairly given more work or responsibilities than your coworkers, this may be a sign of bullying. For example, if you are consistently given more tasks or projects than your coworkers, even when you are not equipped to handle them, this could be considered bullying.

If you are experiencing any of these behaviours, you must speak up and seek support. You can talk to a trusted coworker, supervisor, or HR representative about your concerns. It is also a good idea to document the bullying behaviour you are experiencing

If HR is unable or unwilling to help you address bullying in the workplace, there are a few other steps you can take:

1. Seek support from other coworkers or supervisors: Talk to trusted coworkers or supervisors about your experiences and see if they are willing to help you address the issue.
2. Consider seeking legal advice: Depending on the severity of the bullying and the impact it is having on your well-being, you may want to consider seeking legal advice. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options for addressing the issue.
3. File a complaint with a government agency: Depending on where you work, there may be government agencies that can help you address workplace bullying. For example, in the United States, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) if you believe you have been subjected to workplace bullying on the basis of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, or disability.
4. Look for support outside of work: It is important to take care of your mental health and well-being during this time. Consider seeking support from a therapist or other mental health professional to help you cope with the stress and trauma of workplace bullying.
5. Consider finding a new job: If the situation is severe and you are unable to address the issue, it may be necessary to consider finding a new job. It is important to prioritize your well-being and work in a healthy and respectful environment.

If you are a South African citizen and your HR department is unable or unwilling to help you address bullying in the workplace, there are a few other steps you can take:

1. File a complaint with a government agency: There are several government agencies in South Africa that may be able to help you address workplace bullying. Some options include:

• The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA): The CCMA can help you resolve disputes with your employer, including disputes related to workplace bullying.
• The Department of Labour: The Department of Labour can help you understand your rights and responsibilities as an employee, and may be able to provide guidance on how to address workplace bullying.
• The South African Human Rights Commission: If you believe that you have been subjected to workplace bullying on the basis of your race, gender, age, or disability, you can file a complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission.

The effects of bullying: 

Bullying can have serious negative effects on an individual’s mental health and well-being. Some common effects of bullying include:

1. Increased stress: Bullying can cause high levels of stress and anxiety, which can lead to physical and mental health problems.
2. Decreased self-esteem: Bullying can damage an individual’s self-esteem and sense of self-worth, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-confidence.
3. Depression: Bullying can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, which can contribute to the development of depression.
4. Physical health problems: Stress and anxiety caused by bullying can have physical health consequences, such as headaches, stomach problems, and difficulty sleeping.
5. Difficulty concentrating: Bullying can make it difficult for an individual to focus and concentrate, which can affect their work and school performance.
6. Increased absenteeism: If an individual is being bullied, they may feel anxious or unsafe about going to work or school, leading to increased absenteeism.
7. Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships: Bullying can make it difficult for an individual to form and maintain healthy relationships with others.

It is important to address bullying as soon as possible in order to mitigate the negative effects it can have on an individual’s well-being.

How to address bullying in the workplace:

If you are being bullied at work, it is important to take action. There are a number of steps you can take to address the situation.

First, try to talk to the person who is bullying you. This can be difficult, but it is important to try to resolve the issue directly with the person involved. If this is not possible or does not work, you can speak to a supervisor or human resources representative.

It is also important to document what is happening. Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses. This will help build a case if you need to take further action.

If you feel like you are in danger, or the bullying is severe, you may need to file a formal complaint or even contact law enforcement. Taking action can be difficult, but it is important to stand up for yourself and create a safe work environment.

Conclusion

No one deserves to be bullied at work. If you are being bullied, it is important to speak up and get help. There are many ways to deal with workplace bullying, and there is no one “right” way to do it. The most important thing is to find a method that works for you and helps you feel safe and comfortable in your workplace.