Costs to the Employer

For the employer, the costs of bullying may include:

• An atmosphere of fear, secrecy, and low cooperation
• Low productivity
• High rates of:
  • Staff turnover
  • Sick leave usage
  • Suspension and other disciplinary procedures
  • Dismissal
  • Grievances
  • Ill-health retirements
  • Early retirements
• Increased liability for health damaging employment practices

Costs to the Employee Target

Targets of workplace bullying often experience significant physical and psychological suffering. CAWB’s US Hostile Workplace Survey revealed the following psychological and physical symptoms in the targets of workplace bullying:

Spot Bullying Behavior

Bullying personalities can be found anywhere, even in the “best” companies. When you’re interviewing for a job, don’t be so dazzled by impressive mission statements, titles, and awards. Talk to other employees and former employees (if you know any) about the company's management style. Ask the employer for a copy of company policies and read it carefully, taking note of their policies on:

• Staff turnover
• Sick leave usage
• Suspension and other disciplinary procedures
• Dismissal
• Grievances
• Ill-health retirements
• Early retirements

It's safer to ask for written policy information and read it, rather than ask about these issues during the interview process, which could give the impression that you expect to have difficulties in the new company.

Stop Feeling Ashamed

According to Ruth and Gary Namie, organizational psychologists and the founders of CAWB, being bullied at work is very harmful to self-esteem, particularly if you are not receiving any support. Stop listening to the verbal assaults and do not feel ashamed. Remind yourself that you did nothing wrong.

Document Each Incidence

Document each incidence of bullying, what happened and how you felt. This will help reduce any confusion you may feel. It may also help you eventually get the changes you need.

Confront the Bully…Gently

You deserve to be treated with respect, regardless of who you are or your position in an organization. If you feel that you are being bullied, do not attack or blame the bully. Instead, calmly but firmly talk about the behavior you have observed and how it makes you feel. Use “I” statements—“I feel demeaned when you raise your voice to me in the office,” rather than “you” statements—“You are bullying me." Asserting yourself can sometimes stop the bullying behavior.

Discuss the Situation

If the bullying continues, talk to someone who may be able to help, such as another employee, a human resource representative, a supportive manager, or a counselor. Sometimes more than one person is being bullied in the workplace. If so, a group complaint may carry more weight.

Find Another Job

If the bullying continues despite efforts in the workplace to stop it, consider finding another job. This is especially important if the situation is causing chronic stress and/or physical and emotional symptoms or illness.

Learn More About Workplace Bullying

Currently, there are a number of international efforts taking place to raise awareness of the silent epidemic of workplace bullying, according to CAWB. These efforts include changing existing harassment laws so that they are all-inclusive, not limited to gender, race, age, national origin, and other characteristics (such as those defined in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Guidelines). Resources include organizations, books, and annual conferences on the workplace bullying, as well as consultants who specialize in reducing hostile work environments.