How to Stand Up to Bullies at Work
Going to work every day can be extremely stressful when you have to deal with the harassment of a bully. Bullying isn't limited to school playgrounds: it's relatively common in workplaces. Whether the bully is a supervisor or coworker, it can be hard to stay productive and enthusiastic about a job when you're always worried about being mistreated. Take matters into your own hands and regain control over your job.
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Instructions
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Take the high road. Although it can sometimes seem impossible to resist making a snippy retort in response to a bully's cutting words, doing so will do nothing to improve your situation. In fact, responding that way will likely make the problem worse. Always be the better person, as tough as that may seem.
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Analyze what's really going on. Figure out if the bully is targeting only you, or if she treats everyone in this manner. If you notice the bully is also mistreating other people, try to speak with them confidentially. The more people who can back up your experiences, the better. Also, a support system may be helpful to you as you're going through the emotional difficulties of bullying.
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Communicate. Don't always assume the bully is out to get you. In some cases, the bully might not even know that his actions are bothering you. Talk to him directly, and in a calm and composed way explain what he's doing and how it's making your work experience difficult. Avoid yelling, insulting or behaving in an otherwise incendiary manner. Try to get to the bottom of why the bully is behaving the way he is.
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Maintain your work performance. No matter how distracted a bully may make you feel, try to continue performing at your best. Avoid giving the bully an excuse to call you out on declining workplace performance.
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Write everything down in a journal. If, in the future, you decide that you need to notify higher-ups of the harassment, keeping a journal of your experiences will be beneficial. Detail every instance of bullying, and make sure to also record the dates.
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Keep a thick skin. Refrain from letting the bully get the best of you, as tough as that may sound. Try not to let her see that you're upset by her behavior; this type of person often thrives on reactions. Remain as cool as possible in the face of bullying.
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Take action officially. If your bully's behavior shows no signs of letting up, notify the HR (human resources) department. Present it with clear facts regarding the bully's harassment, and use your journal as evidence. The more proof and facts you have to back you up, the easier it should be for you.
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Tips & Warnings
Think of your own well-being. If you've done everything you can (including speaking with HR) and don't believe that the bullying is ever going to stop, consider your mental health and the possibility of leaving. No job is worth continual harassment. Take control of your life and do what you need to do, even if it means making a major change.
References
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