HOW TO DEAL WITH BULLIES
Jessica Hickman shares how to prevent yourself from becoming a target
AVOID “PRIVATE CONFERENCES” LIKE THE PLAGUE
Whenever my bully asked for a word in private, I knew it was because he didn’t want any witnesses present to whatever shady schemes, abusive rants or whispered threats he had in mind. When interacting with a bully, try your best to avoid private conversations.
SPEAK UP FOR YOURSELF
Tell the bully their behaviour isn’t OK – and why. Tell them with all the confidence and calm you can manage. Even if it doesn’t end up making a difference, it’ll make you feel better about yourself, which is important. For example, say, “I am feeling bullied and hurt by your words because...” or “I am feeling humiliated when...”
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Familiarise yourself with the company’s bullying policy, anti-discrimination laws and your legal options as a bully target. Knowledge is power. Fearing retaliation is a common (and often valid) fear when reporting bullying incidents to management, so know where you stand if they try to take the easy way out and fire you instead of the bully. This is a common recourse for weak leaders.
GATHER YOUR WORK COLLEAGUES TOGETHER TO PUSH AGAINST BULLYING AS A UNIT
Often, you won’t be the sole victim of a chronic workplace bully. Help others with their own victimisation in any way you can and consider approaching management with your collective reports of unacceptable behaviour. There’s strength in numbers.
For more tips, visit bullyology.com