Workplace Bullying

Most of us have this expectation that we grow up, leave school and hey presto, we’re adults and all the worries and trauma of being an adolescent magically disappear. Unfortunately, the sad truth is quite different to this, especially in the context of workplace bullying. Much to our surprise and disappointment, it seems that some people are reluctant to let go of the schoolyard and choose to behave in a way that, while also inappropriate at school, is somewhat more fitting of the troubled teen stage.

The key words when defining workplace bullying are repeated and unreasonable. There are situations where someone’s behaviour may be unreasonable, and while this person should potentially be monitored, where it crosses over into bullying is when this becomes a repeated behaviour. The Fair Work Ombudsman helps clarify what is unreasonable behaviour by highlighting that whether a reasonable person views the behaviour as unreasonable in the situation, is a good guide for what is unacceptable. Bullying can be classified as teasing, exclusion, aggressive behaviour and pressuring someone to behave inappropriately.

When you’re the target of this behaviour, the impact to your health, well-being, self-esteem and finance can be huge. You may start to see your performance at work deteriorate, as a result of being repeatedly put down, which can then have a flow-on effect to your life outside of the office. Going to work may become a thing of dread, and you may find yourself taking days off, even as your paid leave begins to disappear. And we all know how the feeling of stress can manifest into physical symptoms, leading to neck and back pain, headaches and sleep problems.

So, what can you do if you’re the target of something like this? First of all, talk to someone. Saying the words will make it real, which can be confronting but it’s also the first step towards making it clear that this behaviour is not ok. Ideally you’d talk to your manager or someone in HR however, you may feel more comfortable starting with a trusted friend or a person outside of your office. You may choose to get in touch with the Fair Work commission for more information about lodging an anti-bullying application or just find out more about your options.

What if you see this happening to your friend or colleague? Again, just try talking to them; ask them if they’re ok. Being bullied is a very isolating experience and simply by reaching out to this person will help them feel that they are not alone. Schedule time with them to go and have a coffee or lunch, outside of the office. You may consider reporting the behaviour to a manager or HR, or even just having someone you can talk to for advice yourself. No matter what you decide, make a decision to take action, ignoring the behaviour will not make it go away.

While bullying may be something you thought you’d left behind when you walked out of the school gates for the last time, encountering it later in life means you have the benefit of maturity and wisdom to help guide you through. It’s important to always remember your self-worth and that no matter what battle you’re fighting; there is someone who can help. To finish, I’d like to leave you with this saying which, although a little over-used, is something which is brilliant in its simplicity: In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

Shannon Wood, Managing Director S8 Expert Recruitment Solutions. He has over 10 years recruitment experience specialising in the animal health industry across the ANZ region. Areas of expertise include sales and marketing, technical roles (Quality Assurance, Quality Control & Regulatory Affairs) and operational & financial positions. He has worked extensively in the veterinary, ruminant, monogastric, aquaculture and the pet specialty industries and is looking forward to the next 10 years.