Workplace Bullying
Part 2 – More Signs Your Being Bullied at Work
It’s no secret that workplace bullying is on the rise and it’s unacceptable in any form. Companies are starting to recognize this as a serious problem to their bottom line as it affects not only the victim, but their entire staff, not to mention their brands reputation among potential employees and clients. Long term bullying can take its toll on the emotional and physical health of their staff and make a major impact on the overall productivity of a company. Not to mention having to deal with a host of legal issues that arise when there is a hostile workplace.
So as an individual, when should you be concerned? As an employer what should you watch for?
Here are even more signs that you’re being bullied at work:
Burning Personal Days
Pressure has gotten so bad that you are burning through your personal days by using them to escape, even if it’s only for a day, from your current work environment. You are so mentally and emotionally drained that you spend your day off depressed and on the sofa. You’ve lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy.
Obsessing About Work
Is there a reoccurring theme to your complaints and are they centered around a specific co-worker? If your spouse, family and even the dog are sick of hearing you complain about work, then bullying could be at the core of your frustration.
Criticism Never Stops
The criticism just keeps on coming. You’ve proven yourself at work. You’re highly respected and have an excellent work ethic. However, the criticism from your boss or co-worker never stops. It’s as if they are just looking for a reason to criticize you and you have a target on your back.
Getting Yelled At
Bullies who hold powerful positions in a company don’t feel the need to be covert in their bullying. They aren’t shy about making their feelings known by yelling, screaming, insulting and humiliating their target, while innocent bystanders scurry for cover.
Reliving Past Mistakes
Even though your boss or co-worker are walking amnesiacs when it comes to their own mistakes, they remember every little mistake that you’ve ever made. It’s like they are keeping a list and constantly looking for opportunities to bring them up, especially in front of your co-workers.
Becoming Isolated
You’ve suddenly become invisible at work and being slowly phased out and socially isolated by your boss or co-workers. You are constantly being omitted from meetings, lunch invites and afterhours activities. Some powerful bullies even go as far as to have your desk moved and openly discourage others from interacting with – Congratulations! You are now exiled on the Isle of Misfit Toys.
Request Denied
Your requests to transfer to a different position, department or office location are denied and the boss’ aggressive behavior escalates.
Bullying is all about CONTROL and the people targeted are almost always seen as threats. Targeted people are seen as competition and need to be eliminated. The targets are almost always people who excel at their work, are competent, personable and well liked. So if you are being bullied stop blaming yourself thinking that you somehow caused the bullying. Recognize what’s really going on and start working on your options of handling the situation. Should you stay and fight? Or should you wait it out until a better opportunity comes along? Either way, don’t attempt this alone. Seek out professional assistance. A counselor can teach you how to better recognize and cope with bullying, while giving you an invaluable personal skill set that you will use for the rest of your life.
Wait! There's more to this article!
Workplace Bullying Series
Part 1 - Bullying - It's not just for the Playground anymore
Part 2 - Bullying - More Signs You're Being Bullied at Work
If you know someone dealing with bullying of any kind, please share this article with them and encourage them to get assistance.
For more information call 407.415.2493.
 |
About the Author
Melody Kipp, PhD, LMHC is the President and CEO of Life & Work Soulutions, Inc. She holds an earned Doctorate degree in Psychology with a specialization in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Applied Psychology with a Clinical-Counseling emphasis. Dr. Kipp has been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH5137) in the State of Florida since 1999 and is a State of Florida Qualified Clinical Supervisor for Mental Health Counselor Interns and Marriage & Family Therapy Interns. [...]
|
