Ways to Stop Bullying in the Workplace
In order to achieve harmony and productivity in the workplace measures need to be put in place which address certain employee issues. Under no circumstance should employees feel intimidated by their colleagues, neither should the prospect of going to work be distressing for them; therefore, management should be aware of measures which can be taken to prevent bullying. The issue of bullying in the workplace is preventable, read on to find out how.
The first thing that those in charge should do is access their environment and establish whether any bullying is in fact taking place. This is not always easily done or that obvious. Employees may possibly be reluctant to speak up, also any occurrences maybe very subtle or taking place out of view. The people in charge should make sure that they are paying close attention. It might be that employees have to assist by keeping a close eye on things and letting them know if anything goes on. If something is going on sooner or later it will be picked up, and further action can be taken. Types of bullying to look out for are unfair treatment or workload, verbal or physical abuse and threats.
Once it has been established that bullying is a problem in the business, it should be actively discouraged. This can be established by holding monthly or weekly meetings and talking about any problems that may have come up. It should be made expressly clear to employees that causing trouble and terrorising others will not be allowed under any circumstances. It is usual for companies to be run by management, in order for everyone to be clear on how to manage diversity there should be a policy in place to offer guidance in dealing with such issues. If the bullying continues, management should follow the procedures previously set out.
Being consistent is essential to ensure a harmonious and productive workplace. If those in charge simply state that they will not tolerate bullying, but do nothing when they see it or it is reported to them, nothing will be accomplished. A clear message should be issued that bullying will not be tolerated and that there will be consequences. In some cases, further action may be required. If somebody deserves to be let go because of what they have been doing, shying away from the idea should not be done.
It is a good idea to keep a record of any bullying occurrences. These records will be needed if any further action needs to be taken against an employee. Looking back over records will make it easier to highlight problems and come up with effective solutions.
Management has a responsibility to their staff to eliminate bullying in the workplace. By having policies in place to guide management through the course of action to be taken in such scenarios then issues will be dealt with consistently and fairly.
360 diversity is a tool which aids UK organisations in effectively managing diversity in the workplace. For further information visit www.360diversity.com.
June 21, 2011 | Posted by Ruth Williams
Categories:
Tags:
