I hope my readers don’t mind if I pause on the jobs and beauty talks, to discuss a topic that’s so prevalent in Corporate America today…BULLIES! Most people have experienced a bully a time or two in school, but unfortunately it happens in offices everyday. What is a bully, exactly? In most cases, a bully is someone that uses their power or appearance of power to intimidate or coerce someone to do what they want. This behavior is completely unacceptable! One of my biggest pet peeves is watching an insecure and unprofessional person bully a subordinate or peer. Honestly, for me that would be a reason I would strongly consider making some changes. People go to work to pursue their passions and grow as a professional, not to relive high school hallway disrespect.
When you are dealing with a bully in the workplace there must definitely be a strategy to work through the relationship. I don’t recommend having an altercation at work but I know people have limits, so here are a few tips on how to handle an office bully effectively:
- Try to speak with the person in a calm, constructive manner (in-person if possible)
- Let someone (Supervisor, HR) know, for possible mediation
- Document occurrences
- Create boundaries of interaction with the person (See 5 & 6 if your leader is the bully)
- File a formal complaint
- Find another great opportunity!
Have you encountered an office bully in your career? How did you handle the situation? Discuss in the comments.
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