I have just finished a 3 day residential program for women in leadership.  To my absolute surprise and disgust, every single participant had been the recipient of workplace bullying at one time or another.  Each woman was a middle manager in her workplace and the bullying had been done by both males and females.

All had either left a job for this reason or had to employ extreme tactics over a prolonged period of time to resolve the situation.

It is incredible to think that, in this day and age, bullying should be tolerated by organisations. Seemingly, organisations still do not have enough processes in place to couteract this abhorrent practice. I myself have been subject to this treatment and know how powerless you can feel when confronted with such a situation.

My advice is:

• Tell someone in HR and a superior (someone above you that is not the bully) that you have a problem with a workplace bully but you are trying to handle it yourself. Make them aware.
• If the behaviour escaclates make sure you keep telling HR and the superior. Recognise that you are entitled to protection from your company. They have a duty of care.
• Realise that it is not about you - it is always about them! Most bullies are cowards or have been bullied themselves and do this because they are unable to handle situations in an appropriate manner.
• Document every conversation or encounter with the person - this is your proof. Talk to your colleagues and see if there is a pattern to this behaviour.
• Be courageous and act because if you don't the behaviour continues with someone else.
• If the bully is the boss - leave!

Have you been bullied? If so, how did you handle the situation?