Traditional workplace bullying is compounded by the widespread use of technology, the popularity of social media, and sensationalized news stories. Therefore, it’s not surprising to see why workplace bullying has become an increasing concern for employers. Behaviors exhibited include cyber-bullying and cyber-stalking as well.
The California Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission considers bullying an "urgent public health issue" and states:
"Bullying is recognized as a significant public and mental health issue. Most definitions of bullying specify aggressive, unwanted, repeated behavior that is difficult to stop, inflicts physical and/or emotional harm, and involves an imbalance of power."
Workplace bullying typically lacks physical aggression, but repeated verbal and emotional attacks can be just as detrimental to the victim and to the organization.
According to the Workplace Bullying Institute, workplace bullies utilize ten common tactics in their mistreatment of fellow employees:
Legislation against workplace bullying doesn’t exist yet, so this type of harassment isn’t punishable by law. Workplace bullying occurs four times as much as sexual harassment or racial discrimination in a company or organization. For these reasons, employers should be especially vigilant of workplace bullying. In order to protect their company and employees, employers must assume the lead to maintain a safe, productive work environment. Below are a few tips to support those efforts.
1. Avoid clearly discriminatory or intolerant behavior;
2. Respect the unique perspective and knowledge each person offers;
3. Act in ways that build people up, not tear them down;
4. Let go of the belief that your way is always right.
A healthy work environment where managers, supervisors, and employees are friendly and supportive of each other is a win-win no matter how you look at it. It leads to great cooperation and collaboration that in turn results in high volume efficiency and production. Conversely, workplace bullying significantly reduces morale, which then affects overall speed of production.
Aside from production, a work culture that is free of bullying contributes to loyal employees who will dedicate their careers to your company. Valuable personnel wouldn’t quit because of bullying conflicts, and you wouldn’t have to hire or fire people unnecessarily.