How to deal with workplace bullying
Bullying isn’t limited to schools. Many childhood bullies grow up and bring the same behaviors into the workplace. Office bullies intimidate colleagues, spread rumors, exclude team members from meetings, or make fun of coworkers. These behaviors don’t just harm the individual—they negatively affect productivity, creativity, and overall office morale.
Learning how to handle workplace bullying is essential for your well-being and professional growth.
Understanding Workplace Bullying
Workplace bullying can take many forms, including:
| Type of Bullying | Examples | Impact on Victim |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal | Insults, sarcasm, yelling | Stress, anxiety, reduced self-esteem |
| Social / Relational | Exclusion from meetings, gossip, spreading rumors | Isolation, depression |
| Professional / Work Sabotage | Assigning impossible tasks, undermining work, stealing credit | Career stagnation, frustration |
| Cyber / Digital | Harassment through emails or messages | Emotional distress, decreased focus |
Authority source: Workplace Bullying Institute
Steps to Deal with Workplace Bullying
1. Assess What You Can Control
You cannot control the bully’s behavior, but you can control your reaction. Start by calmly addressing the issue with the bully:
- Specify exactly what behavior is unacceptable.
- Avoid emotional confrontations.
- Mention that you may report the behavior if it continues.
If this doesn’t work, escalate to your supervisor. Document everything carefully.
Documentation tips:
| What to Record | How to Record It |
|---|---|
| Dates & Times | Note each incident chronologically |
| Witnesses | Include names of anyone who saw or heard events |
| Details of Behavior | Describe exactly what happened, stick to facts |
| Communications | Save emails, messages, or memos |
Authority source: American Psychological Association – Bullying at Work
2. Intervene When You See Bullying
If a coworker is being bullied:
- Offer support and listen to them without judgment.
- Encourage them to report the bullying.
- If they cannot, you may report it on their behalf, while remaining professional.
- Avoid gossip and actively stand up for victims when possible.
Example: You notice a colleague being excluded from a team meeting repeatedly. Invite them for a coffee, listen, and guide them to HR or their supervisor.
3. Role of Supervisors
Bullies often target high-performing employees who pose a perceived threat to their career. Supervisors must:
- Foster a collaborative and respectful team environment.
- Stop gossip and rumor-spreading immediately.
- Follow company policies to address bullying.
- Escalate persistent issues to Human Resources.
Tip: HR departments usually have formal guidelines for harassment and bullying. Document any meetings and incidents for future reference.
Authority source: UK Health and Safety Executive – Bullying at Work
4. Additional Tips for Employees
- Practice assertive communication: clearly state your boundaries.
- Maintain a support network within the workplace.
- Use stress management techniques (meditation, exercise) to reduce anxiety.
- Know your legal rights in case the bullying escalates.
Example: If a colleague continuously criticizes your work unfairly, politely but firmly respond with facts:
“I appreciate your input, but I disagree with this assessment. Let’s discuss constructive solutions.”
5. When to Seek External Help
Sometimes internal reporting isn’t enough. External options include:
- Legal advice on workplace harassment.
- Therapists or counselors to manage stress and anxiety.
- Support groups for bullied employees.
Authority source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Workplace Violence
Quick Reference Table: Workplace Bullying Actions
| Action | When to Apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Speak directly to the bully | First occurrence | Keep calm, factual |
| Document everything | Continuous | Dates, times, witnesses, emails |
| Report to supervisor | If direct approach fails | Follow company policy |
| Advocate for coworker | When colleague is hesitant | Remain professional, avoid gossip |
| Escalate to HR or external help | Persistent or severe bullying | Legal and psychological support recommended |
Final Thoughts
Workplace bullying is more than unpleasant—it affects health, productivity, and workplace culture. Documentation, assertive communication, and support from HR and supervisors are key tools. By staying professional, knowing your rights, and seeking support, you can protect yourself and others while maintaining a positive work environment.