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Off The Playground, Into The Boardroom: How to Deal With the Office Bully
Originally Posted Feb. 4, 2015 by Kathryn Tuggle
NEW YORK (MainStreet) — Unfortunately, bullies rarely stay on the playground, and emotional abuse happens all too often in the workplace. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 28% of workers have felt bullied at work and 19% of those workers left their jobs as a result. If you’re dealing with someone at your office who belittles you, harasses you or tries to take credit for your work, here’s how to stand up for yourself and put an end to their childish behavior.
Make sure your perception is reality
You should never blame yourself for being bullied, but you should step back and take a look at the entire situation, says Elaine Auerbach, managing partner at executive search firm Kaye Bassman International.
“Sometimes if you’ve just joined an organization, you may not understand the company culture. Until you become one of the group, the nuances with some of the office interactions may be lost on you,” she says.
At any job, you should always walk with intention and demonstrate self-confidence. Show that you know who you are.
“Carry yourself like someone who isn’t a victim, like someone who deserves respect,” she says.
Read More: 5 Things You Need to Do Now to Find the Right Job in 2015
If you feel you’re being bullied, ask the opinion of a co-worker you trust.
“Step back, collect your thoughts and ask them if this is something they have observed,” she says. “It may be that you work in a high-stress workplace and sometimes people just blow up. But if it’s consistent and it appears as if you’re the one being singled out, then that’s good feedback to have.”
Try to develop a rapport and have empathy where necessary