Some people are lucky enough to work in an environment where people are professional and the atmosphere is collaborative. Others, however, are unlucky and work in an intimidating work environment where bullying is the norm. Instead of working together, employees work against each other.
Sometimes work can be intense and difficult but that doesn’t necessarily mean that there is bullying happening or the atmosphere is toxic. Although the differences might seem flimsy they are there. In this article, we will help you see the signs that you are being bullied so you can do something about it.
1 – You’re Excluded
One of the most subtle forms of bullying is that you are excluded from a lot of what goes on at work. This doesn’t mean that you are bullied because you aren’t being invited for after-work drinks. It means that you are not able to get promoted or even get your work done in an efficient and acceptable manner.
This type of exclusion is meant to hinder your success at work. It’s a form of sabotage so you aren’t able to do a good job and then are the one getting passed over for promotions and raises. Others end up getting preferential treatment even though you are the one doing the work.
It’s not easy to tell that this is going on and on its face is not against labor laws. Start documenting things that happen when you are clearly excluded and not being part of the communication.
2 – You’re Publicly Criticized
Getting criticized at work is not unusual. There will be times when you could be doing a better job and get called out on it. However, there is a professional way to go about that. If there is an issue then Human Resources or your managers will call you into a personal meeting and issues will be discussed in private.
Bullying is when you are being called out in public with no way to defend yourself. It is meant as a way to intimidate you and make you feel bad about your work and yourself. If those criticisms also include insults and put-downs then this is a clear case of bullying.
3 – All of Your Decisions Are Questioned
Part of that constant criticism will come in the form of your decisions being ridiculed and singled out. Everybody should be able to feel like they can be autonomous and make decisions without seeking authorization first. When you aren’t able to do that because you are afraid of being insulted about your decisions in front of the rest of the staff then this has a traumatic effect.
4 – Talking Behind Your Back
If you find that you are a central figure in the company rumor mill then you are likely targeted by a bully. Worse is when those rumors are totally unfounded and downright lies. Try to find the source of the rumor and you will find the bully who has it out for you.
Read Also: Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Must Be Dealt Sensibly
