What is bullying? 

Bullying usually involves physical or verbal violence that could psychologically or ‘mentally’ hurt or isolate you in the workplace. This impacts your confidence and can cause mental or physical health problems. It is usually done to someone in a less senior position.

Bullying can be face-to-face, in writing, over the phone or by social media or email, and occurs repeatedly, over a period of time. Some indications that you may be bullied:

  • You are unfairly blocked from leave, promotion, or denied training opportunities
  • intentionally excluded or isolated
  • responsibilities are removed without cause or you are underworked, creating feelings of uselessness
  • given impossible deadlines or pressure that set you up to fail
  • your opinions are belittled
  • you are physically or verbally abused
  • yelled at or criticized constantly
  • blamed for problems caused by others
  • humiliated in front of colleagues
  • regularly threatened
  • gossiped about

If you are not sure whether an action or statement could be considered bullying, you can use the “reasonable person” test by asking the question: Would most people consider the action unacceptable?

What should you do?

  • Keep a written record or diary: Write down details of every incident and keep copies of any relevant documents.
  • Discuss the situation with someone you trust. Sometimes what feels like bullying may not be. For example, you may be overwhelmed by work due to a change in organisational processes, and with the right kind of support, the problem may be resolved.
  • Try to solve the issue informally by talking to the bully directly, or get someone to do so on your behalf. Decide what to say beforehand. Describe what’s been happening and why you object to it. Stay calm and polite; and avoid yelling or threatening the person yourself or you may end up looking like the bully.
  • If the behaviour does not change, make a formal complaint through HR who will support you in this process. If you are worried that you may be further bullied by lodging a formal grievance, or are afraid to do so if your boss is the bully, please share your concerns with HR or Life Assist who will guide you.
  • The important thing is to believe in yourself and your worth. Every company in SA has a duty of care to their employees and you have a right to work in a bully-free, safe, and productive environment.

LifeAssist does not get involved in labour law, or mediate on your behalf, but can support you emotionally and confidentially.

Written by LifeAssist