Getting bullied at work? Here’s what you can do

We look at some ways you can take on a workplace bully  

A passive aggressive email from a colleague, or a sarcastic comment from your manager every now and then can seem like nothing to worry about. And it might not be. But it can also spiral into something much more serious.

So what do you do if it does develop into something worse? Mental health charity, ReachOut has put together some great tips to help you get through this tough time.  

Keep a record

According to ReachOut, the first step you should take is to keep a record of any bullying happening. This will help strengthen your case if you need to take it further.

What should you take note of?

• The date and time.
• Who is treating you badly.
• Exactly what they’re doing or saying.
• Where it happens.
• Who else was there. 
• How it makes you feel.

Look at your workplace policy

ReachOut recommends getting to know your workplace bullying policy. This will hopefully give you an idea of who to talk to, and what protocols your organisation has in place for dealing with bullies, and what consequences there are for the bully.

Read more: The Answer to Overcoming Workplace Bullying

Take it to your manager and beyond

Getting to the point where you book in a meeting with your manager might make you a bit nervous, but as ReachOut says, it’s part of your manager’s job to make sure everyone feels safe and happy at work – including you.

When you do get the chance to talk with your manager, make sure you bring your notes, this will help you stay calm and will make sure you don’t leave anything out.

Look for help elsewhere

Bully still isn’t letting up? It might be time to bring in the big guns, and report the abuse to an outside organisation such as SafeWork Australia or the Fair Work Commission.

According to ReachOut, you’ll need to submit a workplace bullying application to these organisations, and the bully and your organisation will then be sent an official order to stop bullying.

SafeWork also has a whole heap of great info on your rights at work so you feel informed before taking it outside the organisation.