See Something, Say Something…..Don’t Let The Bullies Win.
There is an old adage…”Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely” It has become prevalent in our society today that seemingly normal people are placed in positions of power and become unable to resist the urge to abuse it. These individual use the tactics of indignity, cruelty and contempt as their calling cards.
Our offices have become battlegrounds where there is a war being raged by those who wish to intimidate others with their use of force. There are many studies found online that show the most egregious acts of bullying behavior happen from the top down. Some reports show that one in four are now affected in the workplace by these individuals.
Workplace bullying is a term that didn’t exist ten years ago, now it is popularized by the media and others to place a label on the acts of intimidation that are common place in some offices today. Bullying in the workplace is subtle, in some cases, it can be physical but more common are the verbal and psychological abuse in systematic victimization that are so more destructive than most can realize.
Many organizations have in place EAP providers, help lines and other tactical support mechanisms to report such behaviors as well as to assist those who are bullying and victims. Zero tolerance policies are implemented but is that enough? Does zero tolerance punish the bully or does it just put a band-aid on what appears to be a gunshot wound of the epidemic of bullying. If these systems were working, why are we still having these conversations?
The lost of talent, productivity and innovation to bullying is immeasurable. These acts have far reaching impact and are costing companies millions. It is not only a human tragedy but a tragedy that affects our ability to move our economy forward.
This week, the #bealeader community will tackle the discussion of bullying in the workplace. Why it matters to leaders to see something, say something and stomp out the cancer of bullying behavior within their own organizations. This is an issue that has tentacles that out reach beyond cubicles and walls. I hope you will take the time to join us on Twitter at 7pmET/4pmPT and bring your ideas to the table on how to combat this issue.
An important post and topic for your excellent chat Jen. Bullying exists in many relationships across career-life roles. A source of bullying can be traced to low self-esteem and fear, so being willing to be assertive, and as you write, Stand up and Speak out, is imperative to halt this type of intimidation. The way we can best provide positive role models for our own children re their experiences in school with bullying, is to stand up for ourselves at our jobs in other life roles whenever ANY form of bullying occurs. EdC
Thanks, Ed. I agree with your statement that bullying is traced to self esteem and fear. There is unpinning of issues with those who bully and I feel strongly that we need to address both the bully and the victim – there are two people involved here and both need to be supported and guided to find peace in these situations. I feel that we must start the intervention of prevention of these behaviors in youth – this is where it appears bullying behavior takes hold. If parents and school administrators, teachers can prevent a bully from taking shape, we can prevent adult bullying as well, in my opinion. Thank you for your comment and your guidance. So blessed. Cheers.