What to do if you are being bullied at work: 10 tips to protect yourself from bullying
Work is a significant part of a person's life. It is our material well-being, internal and career growth, and much more. Therefore, it is important that everyone feels calm and confident in the workplace.
Unfortunately, according to the English Jagran website, people are often subjected to unfair harassment at work by colleagues and management. It can be "innocent" regular pranks and outright bullying, as well as excessive control by superiors.
How to react to what is happening and what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation? Here are 10 tips on how to deal with bullying in the workplace.
Don't keep silent about the problem
If someone is harassing you at work, politely ask them to stop. People often do not realize that they are hurting someone.
Keep notes
Write down what happens to you in the workplace, when it happened, and who witnessed it. This will come in handy for analyzing the situation, as well as if you need to show how things really happened.
Remain calm
Don't respond to rudeness with rudeness, try to stay calm and not lose your temper. This way, you keep the initiative and don't let the bullies impose their own rules of behavior. In addition, when you are sane, it is easier to solve any problems.
Ask for help
Talk about what is happening with a friend, family member, or someone you trust. Look for those in your environment who can give you good advice and support you morally.
Be aware of your rights
Learn the rules of conduct for employees in your company, especially those related to bullying. Knowledge is power. Understanding your rights will empower you and help you protect yourself.
Set boundaries
Define "red" lines that no one is allowed to cross. And if someone tries to do so, politely but firmly point out that such behavior is unacceptable. You have the right to be treated with respect.
Give up plans for revenge
Do not stoop to the level of the offenders. Revenge will not solve the problem, but will only make the situation worse. Most likely, your "forceful" methods will become a "bait" for those who want to participate in bullying and there will be even more offenders.
Ask for help from the company's management
Every company has people who are responsible for the moral and psychological environment in the team. Most often, this is the HR department. If the problem persists, report the situation to them.
Assist in the investigation
If the conflict is no longer a secret and has reached the level of investigation, do not go into the shadows. Your task is to help people who are trying to help as much as possible.
Don't be afraid of lawyers
If you've done everything you can, but the bullying continues, the only thing left to do is to turn to lawyers. People who know the law will help you understand the situation and explain your rights and options.