Workplace bullying is a serious issue that can take many forms, and it often goes unrecognized, leaving employees feeling confused, isolated, and helpless. Recognizing the signs of bullying is the first step toward addressing it and creating a healthier work environment. While some instances of bullying are overt, others can be much more subtle, making it difficult for both the victim and their colleagues to identify the problem.
Common types of workplace bullying and what they look like
Verbal abuse. This may include insults, derogatory comments, or being consistently spoken to in a demeaning manner. This type of behavior can make an employee feel humiliated or unworthy, affecting their confidence and self-esteem. Unlike constructive feedback, verbal abuse serves no purpose other than to belittle or degrade the individual on the receiving end.
Exclusion. This can happen when an employee is deliberately left out of meetings, important discussions, or social events. Exclusion can make a person feel isolated and disconnected from the team, which can be detrimental to their sense of belonging and job satisfaction. It may be subtle, such as withholding information necessary for completing tasks or excluding someone from decision-making processes, but the impact is often significant.
Sabotage. This could involve deliberately setting someone up for failure by giving them unrealistic deadlines, withholding critical information, or undermining their work in front of others. Sabotage can make it difficult for the target to perform their job effectively, causing frustration, anxiety, and even making them question their own abilities.
An intense level of micromanagement. While feedback is an essential part of any job, there’s a difference between constructive criticism, which is done with the intention of helping someone learn and improve, and criticism that’s mean-spirited. Bullying often involves unfairly targeting one individual with excessive oversight or nitpicking. This can make the employee feel like they’re under constant scrutiny, leading to increased stress and a decline in their work performance.
Bullying’s impact on the workplace
The effects of workplace bullying go beyond the individual victim. It can damage workplace culture, lower morale, and reduce overall productivity. When bullying goes unchecked, it creates a toxic environment where employees feel unsafe, unvalued, and unmotivated.
Recognizing the signs of workplace bullying is crucial to addressing the issue and fostering a more positive, inclusive, and productive work environment. If you notice these behaviors, whether directed at yourself or others, reach out to your employee assistance program or a licensed counselor for guidance and support.
