If you have spent a considerable amount of time working in an office or at a manufacturing plant, chances are you have discovered a workplace bully! Some common bullying tactics include creating arbitrary rules to harass a worker, isolating a worker, making unreasonable demands, insulting or putting down a worker, and yelling or screaming at a worker. Other tactics include blaming others for mistakes, taking credit for another’s work and casting doubt on the quality of another person’s work. As a leader, here are a few things to consider:
1. What kind of example are you and other senior managers setting? Are you modeling the right positive culture by your own actions and demeanor?
2. When someone comes to you with a complaint of being the target of bullying, take the time to listen and do some internal investigation. Be a little more observant of what is going on with the individuals in question.
3. Examine the organizational culture. What is in your existing culture that allows this kind of behavior to exist? Have others been rewarded or promoted who were bullies?
4. Consider writing a policy that specifically addresses psychological harassment. Then set up a credible enforcement process that applies to every employee at every level throughout the organization.
Do you have workplace conflict? We can help. Contact me at gthomas@leadingtoday.org or 330-722-8764 and learn about the solutions we have available.
