We often consider bullies to be confined to the school playground but workplace bullying is also a huge issue within the UK. It is thought that around 9.1 million people have suffered workplace bullying in the UK. Workplace bullying does not necessarily mean that someone is name calling or being overly aggressive, it can be a lot more subtle than this. Unlike school bullies, most workplace bullies act alone and it is rare for a workplace bully to do it to individuals who sit above them in the food chain. In the majority of cases a line manager is the one bullying staff and it doesn’t even need to be for any particular reason. In this blog, we will look at the signs of workplace bullying.
Criticism
There is a big difference between constructive criticism and undermining someone’s ability to do their job. A workplace bully will criticise, without providing support. Consequently, the employee will feel ashamed and unworthy of the role. If someone states that they thought you were better than you’ve turned out to be (or something similar), when they haven’t provided any training or steps for progression - they are most likely a workplace bully.
Hostile Environment
If you feel that you walk into a room and there’s a hostile environment, when you haven’t done anything to merit it - it is mostly likely that someone has been speaking ill of you. This is a common sign of workplace bullying. Bullies within the workplace will usually go around speaking about others in a negative way. A workplace bully may focus on just one individual, or they may bully several people. Worryingly, they may not even realise their actions are a form of bullying.
Belittling
A workplace bully will make others feel that they are lower than them and not good enough for the job. Embarrassing and belittling others is a common act for workplace bullies. They tend to look down on others, especially those at a lower level than them.
Taking Credit
Workplace bullies often fail to offer any praise when the individual does a good job. Instead, they may take credit for the work themselves.
Dismiss Concerns
It is common for a workplace bully to be unable to take criticism onboard themselves. Genuine concerns are often not taken seriously and the workplace bully may even turn the concern back onto the other person. Workplace bullies usually have a way of making everything someone else’s fault.
If you have concerns about workplace bullying, you should speak to a manager or HR department. You mean even decide to find another job elsewhere. In this case, you can contact us at Inspired CVs to provide you with a professional CV. Our CV writing services in Glasgow will help you take the next step in your career. You can order your CV here or contact us to find out more.
