Bullying is about power, and can come either from a boss or a subordinate. Victims suffer the same experiences: depression, anxiety, loss of confidence, health issues and even job loss. Discussing what is happening can feel shameful, even unsafe.
Here are warning signs:
- Your authority is eroded by the bully going to your next-level manager, with decisions being made and then not communicated to you;
- The bully stalls on getting work done, questioning your judgment and how things are supposed to work and why, despite multiple clear explanations and coaching; and
- The bully circulates rumors that disparage your reputation and abilities.
If you are in a bullying situation, don’t think avoiding the problem will solve it. Take care of your mental health. Document what is happening to keep factual clarity and be able to prove events that bullies often deny. Show how the bully’s behavior is bad not only for you, but for the company. At Transition Strategies, we provide independent legal advice on how best to present your narrative of events, preferably before you speak with HR, and to fortify you to effectively confront the bully. Calling out the problem does not make you the problem.
Robin Bond
robin@transition-strategies.com
610-283-5061
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