Sharilee shares her experience with a workplace bully and the mistakes she made, with the hope of helping others to NOT do the same.
Bullying Doesn't Only Happen on the Playground
We know about bullies at school, but when we graduate from school and get jobs, we expect it to stop, right? We're grown up. How can anyone bully an adult?
The sad reality is, people can be bullied at any age and in any situation. The tactics may change, but the motive is not that different. Adults are bullied at their workplace on a regular basis. Research from Dr. Judy Blando at the University of Phoenix indicates that almost 75% of employees have been affected by bullying at work during their lifetime, either as a target or a witness.
Mark Bertsche, a senior leadership consultant for Talent Plus, Inc., had this to say: "The power of office bullies is harsh and cruel, producing outcomes that cannot and should not be ignored. The devastation experienced by those directly affected can be severe. Morale, productivity, and culture all decline in a culture with a bully (or bullies). Organizations and their leaders should not ignore bullying."
Bullying is a common occurrence at the workplace, so if it happens to you, you're not alone.
Signs You're Being Bullied at Work
What is workplace bullying? Sometimes it's hard to know if you're the target of bullying, and every individual case varies, but if you experience any of the incidents listed below, you might be the target of workplace harassment.
- You're being outcast, alienated, ignored, or excluded. You get left out of meetings or events; you're the butt of jokes, false rumors about you are being spread, or co-workers avoid interacting with you.
- You are held to standards that are different from your peers'.
- If your reasonable requests are being refused without reason.
- You are publicly criticized, belittled, or teased.
- You experience verbal abuse—subtle or obvious—including public or private dress-downs and whispered or shouted criticisms.
- You experience sexual harassment or unwelcome sexual comments.
- You are removed from duties, or your job is changed or limited without reason; the goals of your project are suddenly changed, negating all your progress, or you're saddled with impossibly difficult tasks.
- Obstacles, distractions, and busywork are thrown at you to prevent you from doing your job.
- You experience overbearing and constant supervision and monitoring of your job, even its smallest aspects.
- Every decision you make is called into question, even the tiny ones.
- Unfounded threats to and comments about your job security.
- You are excluded from progress, promotion, or training opportunities.
- Your boss or HR says that you should just work it out yourself.
- You feel sick when you think about going to work; the physical and psychological repercussions mount, and it's like your body is telling you not to go to work.
I Was Bullied at Work
It happened to me. For professional reasons, I don't feel comfortable sharing all the details, but I will share the mistakes I made in handling the bully and what I learned. After doing a lot of research to understand my situation, and after much reflection, I saw that I made a lot of mistakes. I don't blame myself because few of us are automatically equipped to deal with workplace bullying. We don't expect it, and it takes us by surprise. It is often only after going through it that we gain a very painful education.
Here are ten things not to do when being bullied at work. I want to stress that even if you are making all of these mistakes, don't feel bad. These lessons are not designed to make you feel bad, but rather to help you feel like you're not alone.
1. Don't Blame Yourself
If we are bullied, we might think it's because we are not a good worker, or perhaps not a good person. In other words, we start to believe what the bully is saying about us. We start to blame ourselves.
But please remember this: You don't deserve to get bullied! No one does, but the bully wants you to think you do. Don't give in to the lie. No one is perfect, and if you are trying your best to do a good job, that is all anyone can ask of you.
If they are unhappy with some specific aspect of your performance, they are obligated to tell you in a professional, direct way, not to intimidate you into not believing in yourself.
According to BullyOnline, a list of resources to help with bullying, a target is often chosen because of their strength, not their weakness. This goes against the stereotype of a victim being a weakling on the beach having sand kicked in his face by a muscular winner, but it's true. The abuser is bothered by a strength he sees in his target, one he does not have, so out of jealousy, he finds a way to punish that person.
There is a good chance you are actually being picked on because you are a good person, an honest person, and a hard worker. So remember not to blame yourself. This is hard to do, but you have to try. This is a test of your emotional, mental, and spiritual strength. It is not easy to be belittled, ostracized, and called out for no reason, but I do believe that we come out stronger from the experience.
What I Did: I Thought It Was My Fault
When I was bullied, I blamed myself, constantly searching to see what I might have done wrong to provoke such attention. This came from being insecure and tending to second-guess myself. Because I was so busy interrogating myself, I had few resources left to handle the attacks when they came.
It took me a long time to let that go and believe in myself again, but I do believe that my confidence now is stronger than it was before.
2. Don't Obsess About It
If you are experiencing difficulty at work, it is sometimes very difficult to let things go. It is easy to go over and over in your mind, wondering why it is happening, and considering what you could have done differently.
This is a mistake. Obsessing about it takes away all your power and makes you start to feel weak. This behaviour can also mean that you start to feel confused, wondering how much is your fault and how much is theirs. An unwavering fixation on the problem can lead you into addictions to try to escape from what is happening. Recent parliamentary changes in Canadian laws acknowledged a connection between suicide and workplace bullying.
This moving article tells of the author's experience of her father's suicide as a result of workplace abuse. There is no doubt that it is very hard to not fixate on it. In order to get out of the cycle, it is usually necessary to take some kind of action, either by getting intervention, receiving counseling, or doing something to confront your intimidator. Doing nothing leads to internalizing it more and more, sometimes being unable to control the feelings.
During your time off, try to stop thinking about it for a while, and focus on other things. You won't solve it by thinking about it day and night. If you have faith, I would also recommend prayer.
How I Obsessed About It
When bullying kept occurring at work, I could not get it off of my mind. I am naturally conscientious, and it really bothered me that someone did not seem to be pleased with my work. I spoke about with my husband, to the point where he got tired of hearing about it. I became obsessed with the problems I was dealing with at work.
3. Don't Assume Things Will Get Better
It's often hard to know if it's really bullying or if it's just normal work relations. But if you really are being bullied at work, there's a very good chance it won't get better. The dynamic has been set up, and it is likely to continue until action is taken to stop it.
Many bullies are serial offenders, which means that they will choose one or two people to target and keep bullying until they are forced to stop or find another target. If it wasn't you, they would find someone else. The only motivation for them to stop will be when someone refuses to be bullied, or another person forces them to stop. In fact, it will likely get worse as the harasser becomes more confident in her ability to get away with inappropriate behaviour.
How I Assumed Things Would Get Better
As a natural optimist, I did not want to believe that I was being bullied. I figured it was just the flush of a new job, a temporary state that would end soon.
It didn't end. In fact, it got worse as time went on. I allowed small things in the beginning, and so bigger liberties were taken.
4. Don't Fail to Document
Documenting your experience is the first thing to do when dealing with a bully at work. If you don't keep track of what is happening, then, in the eyes of the law and other people, it didn't happen.
The only hope you have of ever confronting the issue in any formal manner is to show what happened. You can only do that through documenting every incident, even if it is small, so that you can show the pattern of what is happening.
If you try to fight it through Human Resources, they will need a written record of what was happening. If you go to a lawyer or your union, they also will need to see documentation.
Even if you decide not to pursue recourse, you will rest easier knowing that you could, if you wanted to. Documentation is even good for your mental well-being, as you can view evidence that you have not been making these things up.
How I Failed to Document
The single biggest mistake I made when enduring bullying is that I failed to document what was going on until it was too late. I had a feeling that I should have been writing some of these things down, but denial is easy to fall into. I kept thinking, "it's not that bad" until I could no longer deny it.
When I went to talk to people who might be able to help me, they all wanted to see my documentation, and it was inconsistent. Therefore, they weren't able to help me.
How to Document Workplace Bullying Properly
According to Marianne Worthington, the founder of Work Warrior, a business that helps companies build healthy workplaces, "For documentation purposes I always advise people to have three clear documented incidences of bullying behavior. If the incidences can prove that quality of work was affected, then that’s even better. Once someone has three examples, it should be enough to show a pattern."
According to Deb Falzoi, who educates employees, employers, and therapists about the dynamics of workplace bullying, "Documentation (incident logs and emails, for example) serves two purposes: 1. To look back and see a pattern to help targets understand they're not crazy, as the abuser wants them to believe, and 2. To present a pattern to higher-ups."
When documenting inappropriate behaviour, do so in a non-emotional way. Keep your notes terse and to-the-point. Leave out long explanations of how it made you feel: Just write down what happened. Keep a log and include dates, exact words that were spoken, actions or gestures, and witnesses' names. Keep a file of all relevant electronic communications, as well.
How NOT to document bullying:
Oh man, my boss was so mean to me today! She would not get off my back, and I felt like she liked me less than all the other girls in the office. I can't stand it when she always picks on me for no reason. I felt like crying when she spoke to me so rudely. She actually had the nerve to ignore me during the staff meeting! It makes me wonder if my suggestions are no good, or if she just doesn't like me because I might get the next promotion.
How to document bullying:
April 11, 2012: This morning I was finishing up some paperwork when my boss came into the office, walked directly to my cubicle, and asked loudly, "What are you doing, Cynthia? You should be keeping busy even when I am not around." He said this in a serious tone that did not indicate a joking manner. He then walked away. At 2:00 p.m., during the staff meeting, I brought a suggestion about hiring a person for the summer. He ignored me and immediately started talking to another staff member (Bill K.). When I tried to bring it up again, he did not respond to my request at all, but asked Sue S. about her summer plans instead.
5. Don't Allow Secret Meetings or Conversations
One friend that worked as a warden for many years at a prison told me that you should never allow any meeting to take place without having a paper trail of it. So, if your boss pulls you aside for a "secret meeting," insist that you receive an e-mail outlining everything that happened during the meeting.
If your boss neglects to do this, then send him an e-mail outlining everything that happened in the meeting, and ask him to confirm. In some cases, you may also want to send a CC to someone else in the company, such as someone in the HR department.
Of course, this is not necessary for every meeting you have with your bully, but if anything is said regarding your performance, changes to company policy, or anything else that seems important, you need to have that documented. Otherwise, if you act on what you are told to do and there is no record of it, you could have your head on the chopping block.
This is absolutely crucial. If your bully invites you to a secret meeting, there is a good chance they are trying to get away with something.
Another tactic of workplace harassment is to actually leave people out of workplace meetings that they should be invited to. If this happens, keep a record of the meeting, when it happened, and why you should have been invited. If your job is affected because you missed that meeting, document that, as well.
How My Bully Covered His Tracks
My bully often told me about decisions, policies, and assignments through private one-on-one meetings which were not recorded. Therefore, later on, I could not prove to anyone that these meetings had happened. Now, I know that any meeting that affects my job or my position should be documented, especially if bullying has already occurred.
6. Don't Allow Yourself to Be Intimidated
This is the hardest thing to do when someone is trying to intimidate you: to not be intimidated. But just remember that intimidation is aggression, and they are doing it deliberately.
You have just as much right to be at that workplace as they do. You were hired to do a job. Even if the bully is your supervisor or has been there longer than you, they don't have the right to make you feel small. If the bully says something that is clearly not in line, acknowledge it and address the inappropriateness in a polite but firm tone.
Of course, it is important to distinguish between warranted discipline by the boss and inappropriate action. If you need to do better or get your work done more efficiently, your supervisor has the right to let you know. But she does not have the right to watch you constantly for mistakes, call you out loudly in front of other employees, or insult you personally.
There is a lot of information about how to deal with bullies, each with its own viewpoint. The site, KickBully.com, outlines how to understand the bully and, in essence, beat him at his own game. Other sites, such as BullyOnline, focus more on getting outside intervention with your problem.
Whichever way you go, plan your approach and make a promise to yourself that you will not allow this to go on indefinitely. You will either confront and communicate with the harasser in a way that is effective, try to get outside help, or leave. It is intolerable to not to do anything for too long.
I Was Intimidated
For those raised to be "nice girls" or maybe "good boys," workplace harassment can come as quite a shock. When it first started to happen, I did not know what to do. I had been raised to be obedient to my boss and not rebel against authority. I knew it was wrong but did not have the tools to deal with it. So, I did nothing. I let this person continue to intimidate me.
What I should have done was to document it, and then taken some kind of action.
If I was ever put in a similar situation today, I would take action right away. Even though my personality still makes it difficult to confront someone like this, I know that allowing it will only let it get worse.
7. Don't Isolate Yourself
One of the bully's tactics will be to isolate you from fellow workers by encouraging gossip about you and encouraging fellow employees to bully you, as well.
As you become more and more obviously the target in the workplace, other employees may feel that it is not in their career's best interest to align themselves with someone that the boss doesn't like. You may lose people you thought were friends.
The important thing to d, is not give in to this. Keep your relationships with co-workers as strong as you can. You may lose some "friends," but keep the real friends close to you. Let them know what is going on, without going on and on about it, but acknowledge that it happening. You need support during this time.
You may be tempted to cut yourself off because the harassment is making you feel bad about yourself, but don't succumb to those feelings. Fight through and keep the friendships strong.
I Was New
I was new to the job and had not built up any alliances of my own. This is one of the hazards of being new and a reason why new employees are especially vulnerable to workplace bullying.
8. Don't Wait Too Long to Ask for Help
If you are going through this type of experience, you may feel embarrassed to ask for help, and that is understandable, but don't wait too long because the longer you wait, the more beaten down you can start to feel. It's better to ask for help early on so that you can learn your rights and know that you are not alone.
Possible people to talk to are in the Human Resources department of your company, a wise friend, a counsellor, or a pastor. How to Handle the Office Bully and Financial, Verbal, Emotional, and Physical Abuse suggests using the EAP services at your company or union. You may also consider talking to a lawyer about your rights.
Asking for help can be problematic, too. You don't always know if others will be willing to stand up for you. Sometimes, HR departments are part of the problem. If someone in HR tells you that you don't have a case, don't take their word for it because maybe they are not knowledgeable, are afraid to cause waves, or are a part of the problem. Try consulting someone else.
But whatever you do, get help as soon as you realize what is happening. In this situation, waiting does not help you at all. You need to bolster your strength by getting support while you still have your confidence left. After continued harassment, it is harder to reach out.
I Was Told I Had No Recourse
In my case, I reached out to my union and was told that I had no recourse. Later on, I talked a different individual at the same union and found out that the first person had been incorrect. I lost valuable time and did not get the help I needed.
I did finally reach out to several people, but by that time, I was emotionally worn down. Reaching out sooner could have made things a lot better for me.
Will HR Support Me If I Come Forward?
It depends on your company's culture. According to David Schein, MBA, JD, Ph.D., Director of Graduate Programs at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, "HR departments should handle such situations quickly, especially in this day and age of #metoo and violent incidents in the workplace, many spurred by bullying. Consult the HR department, however, do not expect HR to immediately take your side. They need to be objective and must investigate any allegations before taking action."
According to Misha Shvartsman, General Counsel at USB Memory Direct, "HR departments at large corporations are often better at dealing with these situations than small companies, with one caveat: that the person bullying you isn’t a high executive or owner. At a large corporation, when both people are employees, covering their liabilities is priority. However, in small companies this could be the exact opposite. What if the person bullying you oversees HR and your department?"
So although it might seem like the HR department is there to protect you, that isn't always the case. It depends on the size, culture, and history of the company and on the particulars of each individual case.
9. Don't Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Workplace harassment is very emotionally taxing. A person can feel confused, stressed, doubtful, angry, and helpless. To deal with this power keg of emotions, it is extremely important to take care of yourself even more than you usually do.
When faced with stressful situations, some of us turn to addictive behaviours. Others may experience family conflict, or use escapism to get their mind off it. These are all negative ways of dealing with stress and hurt more in the long run.
Try to eat right, take some time for some exercise, and do some things that you enjoy. If the boss is piling extra work on you, don't let it consume your whole life. Take a break. Take time with your family and friends, and talk to them about what is happening, too.
I Gave in to Emotional Eating
During the time of being bullied at work, I felt extreme stress and found it hard to take time for myself. I gained weight from eating emotionally and failing to exercise. I turned to the addiction of food. This did not help the situation and only made me feel worse.
10. Don't Stay Too Long
The decision of whether or not to stay in a harassment situation is a very personal one. If you are willing to stay and fight, then perhaps you will be able to make a difference with your actions. You can't change the bully himself, but you may be able to shine some truth into what is happening and help stop it from happening to other people.
If the situation is getting to you, though, don't stay too long. Your health and well-being are more important than money. Don't let yourself get so beaten down that you lose your confidence for the next job. This is your decision, but listen to what your body is telling you. If you are always stressed, your body may be telling you that it's time to move on.
I Left the Situation
In my case, I chose to leave the situation. I could have stayed and tried to change things, but I found the emotional toll had been too high. I needed to get out and to recuperate.
Everyone has different strengths. You have to look at what you are called to do. If you have tried to fight it and haven't received support from superiors, you may not choose to go any further with it.
Whatever you decide, please know that it is possible to get over the trauma that can occur from workplace bullying and feel good again. The more we talk about this travesty that happens daily in our workplaces, the better off we all will be.
How Long Is Too Long to Stay at a Job Where You're Being Bullied?
According to Marianne Worthington, the founder of Work Warrior, a business that helps companies build healthy workplaces, "Three to six months. If the target is documenting appropriately, that timeframe should allow them to see if management or HR is going to act on their complaint." But if management is the bully in your case, then she recommends looking for another job as soon as possible.
Deb Falzoi, who educates employees, employers, and therapists about the dynamics of workplace bullying, "Workplace bullying works like domestic abuse—targets often don't see the abuse until their self-esteem and health have already begun to deteriorate, since abusers often convince targets they're the problem. So once targets realize they've been bullied, they have already been in the job too long. At that point, the goal is to preserve their health."
How About You?
Should I Confront My Bully?
According to Marianne Worthington, the founder of Work Warrior, a business that helps companies build healthy workplaces, "The only time this is really effective is if the target can confront the bully the first time they see the bad behavior. If the bullying is addressed as soon as possible it could be enough for the bully to find another target. However, this rarely happens because usually we give people the benefit of the doubt and don’t address behavior until it has become a pattern. By then it’s usually too late and confronting the bully will only make the situation worse."
Should I Quit or Stay and Try to Change the Company Culture?
The expert advice on whether you should fight or quit are split:
- Some advise that you don't leave right away. Lynn Whitfield, who not only has served as a city attorney for three different municipalities but who also experienced workplace bullying herself and chose to stay on the job, says, "They should not quit their job. It can be hard sticking it out, but you only empower the bully more when you quit. It will not stop them from bullying someone else."
- Others advise that you quit. Cristian Rennella, VP of HR & CoFounder of oMelhorTrato.com, says, "The culture of an organization is impossible to change while you are employed. It is better to look for another company that has a culture and way of working that defends all its employees from this type of people." And Marianne Worthington, the founder of Work Warrior, a business that helps companies build healthy workplaces, "Leaving is always the best choice. Workplace bullies are real. The longer someone stays in a toxic place, the more severe the effects on mental health can be."
Is Workplace Bullying Illegal?
According to head of human resources and CPO of ShipMonk, Katerina Funk, who was also once a victim of bullying herself, "Note that bullying is not necessarily illegal, but it might be if it is against a protected class of workers. If you are being bullied on the basis of gender, age, sexual orientation, or religion (among others), you will find HR especially quick to act." She also points out that HR sometimes has a conflict of interest: "Remember, HR exists to protect the company, specifically from actionable situations. Bullying, again, is not necessarily illegal. But it absolutely can be illegal, and it is very likely against your company's code, which means that it may not (and should not) be tolerated."
Can I Sue My Employer?
According to Jonathan Street, an employment attorney with The Employment Law Group, "If the bullying is based on race, sex, gender, religion, national origin, or age, it might be a violation of Title VIL and therefore illegal under federal law. You must report it to your HR department or other person responsible for overseeing this type of complaint. Follow through the process they set out in any handbook or other documents, if at all possible. If you fail to do this, you could lose some of your rights on which you later wish to file suit."
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. Content is for informational or entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business, financial, legal, or technical matters.
Questions & Answers
Question: What should I do if a co-worker bullied me and spread false rumors about me to our boss? He has a closer relationship with our boss than me, and might believe what he was saying.
Answer: It is important that you document what is happening. Write down the exact details of the incidents, not using emotions but sticking to the facts.
Also, write down the truth, that counteracts the lies that this person has been saying. For example, if he is saying that you have been late all this week, write down that you came in on time, and maybe show the work you did early in the morning.
This way, if your boss comes to you with concerns, you can counteract these concerns with your records.
If you comfortable enough, you could go to your boss and address the issue, using your records to back you up.
Question: I know I am being bullied by my immediate supervisor, but I don't know the exact dates of some of the incidences. Will the documentation I have be sufficient to support my claims?
Answer: If you don't have the exact dates, just put in as close as possible, for example, say something like "in August..." From now on, if there are more incidents, document immediately, so your records are more precise. Try to write out as many details as you can. You could also try to look back and put together a picture, to try to get the dates down more precisely.
As far as if the documentation is good enough, that is something I can't answer off the top of my head. It might be good to talk to someone who can go over the exact details in your case, and look at what you have.
Question: I keep text messages sent to me by my bullying boss. Is this the same as documenting?
Answer: Yes! That is an excellent example of documenting. You may also want to write a list of the content of the texts, along with the dates and times when they were sent.
Question: I kept emails. Is that the same as documenting?
Answer: Yes, emails are an excellent form of documentation.
© 2012 Sharilee Swaity
Anon on September 03, 2020:
I worked in the most toxic environment I have ever experienced in my life, with a pack of 3 menopausal women who made my life hell for months and got smugger as they did it You could cut the air with a knife in the office each and every day I worked there and when I stood up to them, that's when the daggers really came out and I saw them for what they really were. I ended up on medication because of them and very ill due to that environment. When I reported what they had done, the boss did not believe me. They cheat and get as many perks out of that company as they can and he is totally oblivious to any of it. I ended up leaving for my own health and sanity and now a happy normal person who works with great bunch of people and will never look back :-)
Jess on September 02, 2020:
My job works in 4 different shifts, and all employees always stay on their shift. Recently, an ENTIRE shift has been targeting me, creating lies and false accusations about me and emailing to not only my boss, but my bosses boss as well. I have no idea what to do. Even my boss came up to me and said he can clearly see they are targeting me, and yet nothing has been done about it. Working 12 hour shifts is already stressful enough, the last thing I want is to dread coming into work even more, wondering what lie this shift has created about me now. It seems like they are trying to get me fired. (Note that I am the youngest person on all shifts and everyone else is literally 30-40 years older than me. Is this ageism?)
Pooja on June 03, 2020:
Your article is spot on about bullying. I am facing the same situation at my current workplace with my new manager. And I am the non confrontational sorts so i do not know how to deal with this. I ended up crying in front of the manager because i couldn't take the stress and pressure. i wish i hadn't. he is a perfectionist and wants everything done his way in his time. we try our best but often because of the busy nature of our jobs we forget or we delay it. For that he humiliates us and berates us for hours together. And he is micro managing us, even at that level he manages to find faults and scolds us. Tell me how do i start dealing with this? and my company's culture is such that they do want people to be like my manager and the encourage it. i wont have much luck with HR as they might punish me as well. Please help
Heather on January 11, 2020:
My co worker is bullying me she is friends with my manager and the few times i went to my manager for help she just told the bully and allowed her to view the audio and video of a phine call i made to my mom. I feel like i cant go to management for help and it is getting worse. I feel physically sick and anxious when i have to work with her. I feel like i cant breathe when it gets close to time for her to be at work with me
S. on December 30, 2019:
We have a new worker who takes my place on the next shift who bullies me and intimidates me. I have to work with her for a half hour. I've talked to my supervisor twice, and nothing was done. I'm planning on going to my lead boss.
Anonymously on December 24, 2019:
Please go to a higher up if you are being bullied. Please document date, time and what was said. (If it was your current boss).
Because from what I understand, you can even go to Human Resources if it is a CO-WORKER!
But tell the co-worker “ STOP, that is NOT ok.” Say it loud enough for others to hear!
Then walk away! If it keeps up then document & go to the Supervisor.
Jeff on December 24, 2019:
Reply to Nick:
Thanks for sharing your and your wife's experience. It is necessary for people to realize that bullying often results in the victim's death. My sympathy goes to you. Stay strong. Thanks for sharing your story.
memyselfi on December 14, 2019:
Yes I have been bullied at work, last 2 yrs it’s when it all started and it hasn’t stopped.. Individual bullying overall jealous much reason being, pathetic what makes matters worse they been friends of mine for years until now..
Nick on November 01, 2019:
I recently lost my wife of over 30 years, she died of Ovarian cancer, but this cancer could have been prevented if she was NOT bullied by her boss Carey Osborne at MEDNAX. I recently found a confession letter that she left me describing how Carey bullied her to the point that she was petrified of taking any time off for vacation or medical checkups/procedures. It seems that Carey always gave my wife a hard time for any vacation, medical appointments for her or her elderly parents. MEDNAX is an awful Company to work for, totally incredible the lack of professionalism, human care, and empathy at MEDNAX. During her fight with cancer, she received a dismissal letter from MEDNAX after 20 years with the company with a registered letter. After 2 months from her death, she got almost 2 weeks pay of leftover sick time pay, but her boss would NOT let her take any time for medical needs!!! Stay away from MEDNAX.
Willie on September 29, 2019:
My x boss is harassing me, he disseminate me and been racist for 5 years, not giving me my right, I have body damaged because of his job, he fired me after 5 years, all what I did I try to get EDD he lie to them and say I work for him 1 year but they catch him, I went to the court because he don't wanna pay my unemployment, I won the case, now he sent me restrain order, saying I've been harassing him and treating him, plus he got fake witness with him, what I should do.
Miss Imagination on September 03, 2019:
I learned so fast to stand up for myself. People assumed they could get away with it. Sure I stayed quiet, little did they know that I know exactly what and where I could turn to when I needed help. I read my policies, read different laws pertaining to the issues I was dealing with, documented odd behavior or treatment towards me, then bam outta no where, they are in for a surprise! Little do these bullies know that I know how to stand up for myself.Trust me when I say this, once you learn how to stand up for yourself, you’ll always do it, it’s such a feeling of freedom, and it takes practice. Small footsteps! It is really up to you. I had lots happen to me in my life and once I learned to stand strong, and use my voice, I was able to empower myself and others around me. Don’t ever be afraid to try something new! New attitudes = a new direction in life!
Anonymous on August 10, 2019:
I am bullied by coworkers and management won't do a thing about it. In fact they have sided with the ones who bully me. I have had them put words in my mouth that I did not say, and would never say, and accused me of being a terrorist. These coworkers are the ones who are always cursing and saying how much they hate people and want to harm them and yet I am the one who gets written up when I didn't even say anything like that. They hang out with the CEO, former owner of the company, so he lets them get by with murder. I also had another coworker threaten to hit me and then she went around telling those two coworkers about it and they thought it was hilarious and told others about it. I can't find another job. I am older and companies want the kids. One of the ones that bullies me is in her middle 20s, another is in her early 40s and the other is in her late 40s (shows you some people never grow up). The CEO is in his late 40s and hangs out with the kids and bad raps the older workers, me included. I can't even stand up for myself and just do my best to do my job, yet it has really made me depressed. It is a shame to go through this to earn a measly paycheck. Speaking of, these coworkers get raises yet all they do is play around and act obnoxious. I do my work and keep the clients happy, but that doesn't get me anything but abuse.
Magda ibrahim on July 20, 2019:
I have been bullied by a co worker and also had threatened physical assault on me and my husband if he saw us in the street
The incident was reported to HR
But is the company obligation and duty of care in this matter
How should it be handled?
The is also a co worker that is a witness to his statement as it was said in the work place area
Looking forward for a reply
S on June 30, 2019:
I am being targeted by my manager after reporting her to HR for her inappropriate ways of handling conflict with employees which typically happened in front of other employees, out in the open. We’ve had other cases of her micromanaging me to look for any mistakes she can to make me look like the problem, myself and another employee have even caught her peering in doorways just staring at me. Now she has began a paper trail to make me look like I am not performing well at my job due to my cellphone and has another manager from a different department in on it as well. (They are friends outside of work and she was brought into the company by the other manager) and I’ve just felt hopeless and feel like there has been no disciplinary actions put fourth for my managers inappropriate behavior. She now uses my HR representative to her advantage I don’t know what to do anymore.
X on May 30, 2019:
Cut your losses and run. If you are being bullied, let the bullies have that workplace, and move on, or you can become like them and bully back... maybe laugh when they bully you... nope just leave.
Remove yourself from the toxic environment. A healthy workplace is important.
Jane D on May 16, 2019:
I had a subordinate refuse all directios, coachings, and spreading false claims about me. My bosses literally refused to look at any of my documentation. I was sat down for 2hrs & told all my faults& given conflicting "feedback". Ex: you're too methodical & orderly. Youre too chaotic& papers go everywhere!
Would this be bullying or creating a hostile work environment?
Anonymous on May 15, 2019:
My manager used pictures of me through our security camera, because it took her night crew 2 hours to do the close out. And another manager from earlier in the day, had asked me to process the refund and she provided the information of whom the refund should be going to and which account to post it to. The day after is when I received an email of a picture of me through security processing the refund - I was mortified and literally felt like I was being targeted when that same night, the receptionists almost got into a fist fight but instead the night manager was more worried about me processing a refund - which when I called her out on it she had nothing to say.
Anon on May 15, 2019:
How about when the bully is not only your boss and part of management, but the director of HR....
Alieah Lanford on April 26, 2019:
I have multiple bullies at work one recently left and another to there place this helped me recognize what was actually going on I’m a young worker 19 in fact and they ignore me like I’m a child I have a mild form of autism and I have diabetes if I set down to check my sugar I’m yelled as and I’ve explained it to them before I work for the state of West Virginia at a resort
Anon on April 09, 2019:
I had a huge row with a work colleague on a building site who was senior authority.he started shouting at me in an agressive manner which i done the same in return.he then walked approximately 15metres and squared me up before again shouting in an aggressive way.i never said a word the 2nd time.and 2mins later i walked off site.i was employed 6months and my co worker a few years.i informed my bosses and got my p45.was my co worker requested was dangerous and i was only defending myself and making it safe for me and others.can i claim some sort of unfair dismissal
Jenny on April 01, 2019:
Do I have a case I don't have a contract and have worked for my employer for 1 year 10 months and 3 weeks .Before I started the job I made sure that I would be off every other weekend to match my husbands work, and was agreed so all was fine, untill the employer started to change things and on this occasion she had changed my shift so I wouldn't see my husband on his weekends off for 6 weeks. Thursday's are my day off ..and to my amazement her husband turns up at my home and unknown to me tapes the conversation for her to hear and goes threw the questions again and says that if I worked for him I would not be working tomorrow for him. He then goes on to say that he has to resolve this problem and will take advice from a 3rd party .As a result of this I resigned in writing the next morning and posted a letter threw the letterbox so as not to see her.Then I have a letter stating ..and a copy of the conversation saying a copy of the recorded conversation, and a new contract which they have removed me from working any Saturdays, so why was there a fuss in the beginning if they now don't need me.
Cat on March 19, 2019:
I dont know what to do about a co worker that bullies me. She is not my superior but for work we have to drive together every day and she has now resorted to attacking my personality like covering her nose and mouth while she drives because i am a smoker or pretending to cough. Spraying me with her deodorant. Basic childish things. And it makes me feel so bad that even though i love my job i just feel like quitting and becomming a hermit . Any advice ?
D on March 19, 2019:
Hi there, my husband is being severly bullied by the owner of the company he works for and we dont know what to do. This bullying has brought mu spouse to the point of severe vomitting before he goes to work and other physical affects. On his scheduled days off hes fine. Hes happy productive and no signs of illness. His boss physically threatened him in front of customers last week because my husband had told him he would like to report a manager he beileves is bullying people, and his boss informed if he files any documents against this particular person he will be fired. My husband has been an employee well over 2 years. What do i do?
Kourtnei on February 07, 2019:
I've worked at a nursing home 2 years in June, and in October i switched to night shift, and two people i used to adore working with are now belittling me and i feel like an outcast. A job i once adored now makes me physically ill to get ready for, because i know i have to be around either one of them or both of them. Ive spoken with my DON, Director of Nurses, and she seems to think nothing is wrong, am i just being a baby? I honestly feel like im crazy i have tried to speak tothe coworkers as my DON instructed, but it's just worsened the situation. I've been bullied before at a job before, butt never too this extent. What am i supposed to do? I really dont want to leave the job, because i love it, but i cant stay if this is going to continue.
Kelly on December 29, 2018:
I have been on my job 4 months and from go I’ve been constantly nagged and talked down too , she has been with the company a year in a half and prior to me coming on board everyone has quit because her actions and behavior was to much to deal with . I am a strong willed , hard working compassionate woman . I am being pushed to my very limits and I do all I can to get my job done , however recently she went to HR and told them I was not pulling my weight all the while she gives me her unfinished work to do along with mine . I am ready to call it quits because she has taken every ounce of my happiness from me and work is hard to do when I’m constantly on edge of the unknown of what the day holds for me . I am at my witts end and don’t know what to do .
carrie ward on December 05, 2018:
I think I read this once before but reading it again makes me wonder if a coworker who trained me thought I was bullying her and mocking her by saying I miss her. I know she cant possibly understand how much admiration truly have for her, we did sort of talk but not enough and so she blocked me . Im sad because I know what it's like to be hurt and bullied and harassed in the workplace and I would never intentionally do anything to harm her in any way. I just hope and pray to run into her again and that sending my love for her out into the universe somwhow rachels her and lets her know I come in peace
GPJ on November 23, 2018:
My previous job was an interesting one. A friend needed me to help
him in his business. He was taking on a Huge Contract. Its was a small business with about 16 employees in total. The Job was fairly easy and straight forward and the first 3 years went well. The Boss was a good friend of mine and for the first 3 years we got along okay.
But then something changed and he started to scrutinize everything I did? He would question my management skills and piled more responsibility on me and then would scrutinize my new tasks. This was the first time a took a job with a company this small and just assumed the owner / Boss was simply testing me. But the bullying got worse. I put up with his crap for another 3.5 years before I realized this is taking a toll on my self confidence and I began to question my own abilities. He had convinced me that I was not qualified to do this job anymore. This was one of my best friends from childhood and I could not believe the way he was treating me?
I Managed huge companies before I took this job and kept reminding myself how successful I was in the previous work I did. I got the feeling that he did not want me work for him anymore and this was his strategy. I was doing a lot of work for him, I mean I knew my job well. The last straw for me was when he wanted me to adjust employee time sheets due to not wanting to pay for travel time. I knew that this was against the labour code. I began to plan my exit strategy. There was a big Company needing my assistance and had been contacting me for over a year to come work for them. I had to move to another City but at this point I was ready for a change. I gave my notice and never did tell my friend how I really felt and the way he treated me. My new job was a breath of fresh air, it was more challenging but I realized how much better it was, I still golf every year with this old friend of mine. I still have not said anything to him and probably never will. He did realize how much I did and how valuable of an employee I was after I left. He made a point of saying so one day. I know I did the right thing in leaving. I have been with this new Company for almost 7 years and relieved I made the move.
I do not ever want to have that feeling of worthlessness and anxiety in a job. The Person that took my place lasted about 1 year before going on stress leave. So I realized he was like this to other employees too. I did stand up to him at times but just grew tired of the constant negativity. I knew I was better than that. I just thought I would post this so other people could read my experience. I also learned never to work for a friend.
Go2dive on November 16, 2018:
Tdog are you ok? I know it can feel rotten to be overlooked when someone you trained gets promoted above you. Was your accident something that happened at work?
Tdog on November 01, 2018:
Well in my situation I've been at my job longer than everyone that is working here now two years ago I had a bad accident putting me out of work for almost a year now right before my accident they hired three new guys there are only 4 of us in this department and 4 in another department that's were affiliated with and its government based employment the three months before my accident I trained theses guys how to do there job seem like nice guys to work with at the time. After I return back to work this is when it all changed they formed there little alliance against me and boy let me tell you there good at being undetected by management. My first day back I was treated unwelcomed and was talked rude to and being the guy I am I just let it slide by thinking he just was having a bad day well after a few weeks it didn't change it got worse and I brought it up to management and one of the three spoke up and said he noticed that I have been disrespected by the other individual and nothing was done or said to that person. For the next few months he lighten up on me then that's when the other started on me lieing Harrasing me bulling as its called and continued back and forth with both of them setting up things to make me look bad to my boss then I went to my boss about it for the second time and was blown off by her then that's when I started putting it all together. I'm being singled out. It's been two years now and this is what happing they made the lowest guy seniority the Forman now and the shit has gotten really ugly for me here now keep in mind I trained theses guys OK now I'm being micromanage on everything. I've been stabbed in the back so many different ways you wouldn't believe me unless you saw it yourself. Now my question is how long before I'm fired. I stand my ground always have and yes I've confronted each one that has the boss on there side now and it won't stop. What I'm about to do is something no one should think about doing I never have ever let anyone push me around bully me my whole life this is my only option left there is no way I can possibly get another job that's in this range of pay I'm making now two things that puts me in so bad way I'm injured so I have a disability now and my age if I lose my job I loose everything I have witch isn't much but I've worked hard for it now if there wanting to play God with my future just because they want me out and there worthless buddies in place of me well it time to make a stand and suck message to all the employers that allow bulling and harassment to go on in the work place without repercussion no one that been a loyal employee should be treated in a manner this way it's mismanaged it's wrong and it's not going to change unless something really really bad happens to open all these employers eyes and stop this bullshit so tell me if I'm wrong is it OK to loose everything I worked for because they want there buddies working with them tell me is OK for me to loose my pension my retirement because I intimidate the new guy they made Forman because I know more about this job than he does if anyone should have been promoted to Forman it should have been me I have 8 years more experience here than anyone here.Here management at its best we never had a Forman position before anyway just one boss that's all they created this job for this guy without posting anything about it and put him straight to the top of the pay scale with all benefits without posting because he is a friend of the trustees yes I'm a county worker for Green County like I said nothing is ever going to change unless something bad is to happen I have nothing to lose at this point now I have no kids no wife so my actions I'm about to do will have no guilt laid on anyone to bare for the rest of there lives what's about to happen will make headline news and only thing I have to say now bulling and harassment in the work place is going to stop after I'm done setting my example yes there will be a lot of heart ache I'm sorry this needs to stop and I mean stop no human being should have to suffer like this
Jen on October 27, 2018:
I been at this job for about a little over 12 yrs and I see that they pick at what I do and if I call out its a big deal but if other coworker, with in my same dept. call out they do not make such a big deal but I call out with good reason and it a different story they still make a big deal of it, picking at my jobs how I do it and that there few things I should not look at although you could tell I'm being a team player it bothers them... They go to my desk and move things around and trash other things because they think is not needed for myself to have keep in mind there are notes on all my papers on my desk.. and the list goes on of what ha happen over the last 4 yrs and I feel it will get better but I think this last time its making me feel more and more that things are only going to get worst... I even thought of leaving but I do not have a job yet... I'm so stressed out I'm always with a headache & my stomach always acting up my doctor already told me that the stress at work is making me get sick. This is only a part of my story the list goes on of things that happens a on daily base over these base 4 yrs I think I can write few books already with all the information I have...
Isha on October 24, 2018:
Tell me if what should i do, since i started not to talk or keep accompany to them because I always they bullied, joking me,teasing me and laughing me I stop to join them. After a days and a week, they not talk to me we just have a conversation if there is something in our work. They not calling me to join in our lunch or snacks, every time of work i heard always they laugh and gossip I don't know really who is the person they talk or topic but sometimes I heard my name, I just smile on them. They not include me in group chat except in our group chat in department. Sometimes I also see some pictures they took me that I didn't know. They said I'm change, I just avoiding their bullying towards to me, they just saying any words without knowing they hurt my feelings, they just continue to laugh at me and teasing me again. What should I do.
james innes on October 21, 2018:
I wish I had seen this many years ago as I was bullied by Scottish water the management started it and H.R helped cover it up and devised new things to make my life a misery I was dismissed and have been fighting ever since APRIL 2015 and they just ignore me my life was endangered and public health was endangered still no recourse
Lisa on October 06, 2018:
I have been at the same Job off and on for 17 years I chose to move back to an old position and have Been bullied from the first day of my return, Written up over hearsay, using excuses like you should know how this works ect. they threw away the one disciplinary where I had that the Person in charged of the investigation cussed me out called me a lier and said they would fire me if I didn't comply! I have even taken my complaint to an EEO status and it was squashed. New employee has witnessed how badly I get treated and talked to! I have All the documentation but not money for a lawyer! Guess I'll be apply at McDonalds at the age of 50 and loose everything I have built I cant find any help!
ben martin on October 01, 2018:
Get your self qualified and resent the non-sense. Bullies have no brains and they fear you will surpass them. Bullying is evidence of some impropriety taking place in the work place. A bully is sometimes also a thief.
John on October 01, 2018:
If your bully is a boss and he/she makes it plain that you are not in his favor which in turn leads to an assumption that you are 'fair game' is that not creating a climate where you could be in danger from other people and could be seen as an incitement to violence?
Andrea on September 17, 2018:
I’m working with all females and have only been at my job for about 3 months. Immediately, I was ignored by co workers and left out of conversations and meetings. I had several coworkers try to get me into trouble by making up lies regarding my work. I’ve also overheard conversations about me that weren’t nice to say the least. From day one, I was treated like I didn’t exist and some nights I went home and cried. My job is stressful enough without having to worry about dealing with rude and inconsiderate coworkers. I wish that women could get along in the workplace. This is my first job in a profession that is predominantly female and honestly, I do not think it is something I will continue with. I don’t know why they feel the need to be so mean and try to cause trouble at every turn. I am a pretty easygoing person and I do keep to myself for the most part. I have never had any issues like this at any other job and I feel like what could I have possibly done to these people that they justify their actions of constant bullying and demeaning? I have gone to management with my issues and I have been bullied by them as well. I can only guess that they do not care if their employees are civil towards each other. It may also be that some of these people have been with the company a long time and seem to be able to get away with anything.
Vcarter on September 16, 2018:
My husband and I of 20 years have been going through some obstacles in the last two years, he works as a service manager of a large department in a big corporation ..very high stress job, too many big responsibilities, ..my husband is very prideful in his manhood and knowing he is strong..it recently came to my knowledge by one of his new employees that holds him high regard and is also an outsider looking in that he may be being bullied..how should I approach this new finding and keep his good pride intact along with his manhood in our relationship? More than likely this is the wedge that has damaged his self worth and put a wedge in our relationship..
Teagan on August 20, 2018:
Thanks for the article. We all need to brainstorm to figure out how to protect ourselves properly.
What do you do when you are not in a "protected" group (where the anti-discrimination laws protect others but not us)? It is not like we do not have feelings or can not suicide too.
I believe anyone can be discriminated against regardless of who you are. You can be discriminated against simply because you are quieter than others etc.
I think the government should be protecting everyone properly not just some people.
What do you do when you have a bad union that is more interested in getting favours from managers to protect their own jobs because they need to keep coming back into the field to get work experience?
At the end of the day you cannot make an employer agree to say what happened in the meeting. I personally believe in taping and if someone says this is entrapment I disagree because if you have got the full conversation and can prove this well then it is not like you are altering the conversation by deceit.
Quite often HR won't help and will twist what you say. They forget good staff add value to a company so they should be protecting them, and the bully should be moved on even if they are a manager, because you can get other managers or start training a new person into management who has a better attitude. It alway amazes me that companies do not do proper character checks, in relation to if they are altrustic for instance. This is a good sign because it means the person actually thinks about others not just themselves.
I think any one who puts in a complaint should be made to write it down on a statutory declaration with a warning saying if they mislead and are found to be dishonest they will be given a warning letter themselves.
There does need to be more brainstorming to get the solutions required.
I do agree with what another person wrote quite often the bully is triggered by something you have whether it be a skill etc and are envious quite often, and at times lazy because they don't want to put in the effort to get what you have.
Miss H F on August 17, 2018:
My life is a hell now, I make a complaint about one of my bosses, I have 4 bosses, its a big company and I was thought was safety to do it, was 15 witness workers the different departments, against one boss, but nothing was done, now I already two weeks in home and they are trying to prove I'm the wrong one, making meeting in the company saying bad about me, saying to the workers not take my side because they will prove I'm not correct, they will not find anything about me this is for sure, the company is sexist, racist, bad people. now I can't quit I can't leave its been already two months this process. My suggestion is never to trust the company find a good lawyer and quit.
Male Hispanic on July 24, 2018:
I just found out a coworker of mine is talking trash behind my back to other associates and is being ostracism with me and is saying to others how she dreads working with me. spoke to the district manager and told me to confront her. instead what I did was called my lawyer, he said that is the most idiotic advice one can give especially if it is a woman being the instigator. told me to confront her in a meeting one on one in from of a mediator/manager and to have everything documented. I don't feel like working today either because of that and I found out 4 days ago but she's been talking trash for the past 2 months .
Lynn on July 19, 2018:
I was bullied by my boss for a year and tried to work through it. My performance evaluation was the last straw. She lied about things I could prove were lies. I went to my VP of HR for help and she reluctantly called for an investigation and it was concluded that I had been harassed. The letter I was issued at the end of the investigation was not on letterhead and did not mention the company. I took it to a lawyer who told me that I was now a liability and that I would probably be fired in a year. 3 months before the year was up I was issued a letter to file (on letterhead) that I had to respect the person who bullied and harassed me and it was insinuated that my behaviour was bullying her. Nothing had been mentioned to me about my behaviour or treatment of her prior to this letter. I asked for examples and specific incidents and they could not provide any. They told me I was “uncoachable” and asked if I wanted a social worker to help me. I was stunned and blindsided. I accepted the offer of help which I never received. I was treated as though I didn’t matter and everything I did was under a microscope. I started having panic attacks and was prescribed antidepressants and anti anxiety medication. When the year was up I was fired “without cause”. Everything I did for that company was a success. The bullying was brutal but the final 3 months of working there was cruel. DO NOT GO TO YOUR HR DEPARTMENT FOR HELP! Find a different job for your sanity even if you have to accept a smaller salary. It’s too bad there is no protection for this type of workplace bullying and harassment.
Wizzle on July 18, 2018:
Very helpful piece. Sometimes, bullies use their power of influence to destroy a person's reputation. In my own case, the bully had a way with people and caused others to see me in a negative light. There was and is still nothing I can do about it.
I have also experienced workplace bullying such that someone thought to be an angel was dealing mercilessly with me. I was like her punching bag.
Some guy on July 12, 2018:
I'm the target of a workplace bully currently. I saw him do it to someone else who has since left and I've become the new target. Really don't know how much longer I can deal with it, he is like part of the furniture and sucks up to all the bosses so informing higher ups of his behaviour will backfire on me. Trouble is I really can't afford to resign without having another job, which isn't an easy or fast process these days.
Ann on July 11, 2018:
Hi! I am working at a new job for the lawyer from h*#l. She has accused me of having "memory issues" from day one. She knew I would need training for the job. Bottom line is she enjoys the game of being ugly to me. I am looking for another job and can't wait to get away from her. It has affected my health. I have had a chronic condition for the past 1.5 months. Something tells me it won't go away until I leave this job.
Miss B on June 22, 2018:
Great article! I have had non-stop victimisation. I resigned, and for some reason, they have amped up the bullying and victimisation, even threatening disciplinary action for minor discrepancies. Not sure if it is just out of spite or they want me to just walk out.
Mary Sue on June 06, 2018:
Thank you for this article. I'm currently going through this same problem, and what's worse is the manager appears to be taking the bully's side so far even though I've been doing my work as I should -- even double-checking to make sure I've been doing it right. She reports me for every little thing (which aren't even offenses, just things she doesn't like) and it's been draining, and my work is being affected. At this point I don't know if I should even bother and just start looking for a new job.
Rodney on June 05, 2018:
Thank you for your insight, for over a year I suffered relentless attacks from a bully at work . Everything you describe I went through, unfortunately my experience turned physical. He has attacked people before, only to get away with his brutality. This company seems to turn a blind when it comes to this man. I thought he was going to attack me, so I swung, we tussled on the floor until it was broken up. I was given a week off he is still there and yes in his true form, and he will only get worse. I go back tomorrow, but from what I have read there is hope thank you so much.
Abisola Aremu on May 02, 2018:
I enjoyed this article, i resigned from my job exactly a month ago because of bullying. i agree that often times the bully is threathened by a particular strenght he or she see in you.
She was my direct Boss and often times she will shout at me at every opportunity she gets. The last event she came to my office shouting and pounding the table, " if you can not do the job you can leave". This was not the first time she will threathen me about my job.
Two days after the incidence, she sent me an email validating her actions, and she wanted me to reply. I replied her and told her i will not work with a Boss who will not control her anger outburst.
It is painful seaching for another job though i enrolled for a three months course in Business Management..
James King. on April 24, 2018:
their is someone being bullied vacuously by is work place and no one is willing to help him. They are having fun because the public is have fun. Managements and HR is contributing to the bullying and public shaming of that individuals.
GG on April 20, 2018:
I think I’m being targeted and bullied. I work in a warehouse. Coworkers that I thought were friends have been revealed to be coming into my area to talk to me and then going up front and making fun of me. Several weeks back I was specifically called out for something I didn’t do. The next day I was pulled to talk with the person that called me out, in front of other coworkers, saying “I got a huffy and he called me out cause he looks to me to be in charge.” I was never told this beforehand. Also, my chair was suddenly missing and a friend told me they hid it, never told me I couldn’t sit. And that I was no longer allowed to vape in the warehouse, mind you no one else was called out for that, and the other 2 still vape in there in front of the person that said I couldn’t.
I ended up grabbing another chair to sit while I count the inventory we bring in. Today, that chair was missing again and I’ve been told by a friend that he overheard the boss say he knew about it. I don’t use that chair to do anything but work in and eat lunch. Everyone else in the warehouse has one. Still no mention of not being allowed to sit. Today, while stuffing envelopes I was called out for watching videos on my phone doing this mindless task, saying “no tv at work.” Everyone else in the warehouse is CONSTANTLY watching videos while working, but no mention to them about it.
Christen Hammock on April 12, 2018:
I’m dealing with this right now at work. I feel like I am being targeted and I haven’t done nothing wrong. I feel my GM has turned people away from me and I’m getting mistreated by everyone. This has caused severe emotional distress. What do I do??? I can’t quit because of my bills. I’m emotionally and mentally drained!
Jean Thomas on April 05, 2018:
I really like your advise. I am being bullied by a co-worker. This has been going on for the better part of a year. I blame myself because I said something to her, I thought in jest, which hurt her feelings. I apologize twice immediately when I saw her hurt. I wish I could take it all back
GOUTAM DANDAPATH on April 03, 2018:
Gave me a job to do any work, but I could not do it. Now I told him to give back the money but it will take time, he is not listening to me? I am threatening to take legal action
Not going to take it on March 31, 2018:
I am being bullied at work. All females, except one male. The new supervisor wanted all of the workers to tell our director things that our clinical manager was doing that were basically racist bullying to three coworkers. This supervisor told me she was 'protecting' these particular coworkers. I guess so, because now I am the one that is having the work load doubled on me because these three co-workers know that the supervisor protects them. I am ignored by my clinical manager and director now. I am just going to quit, because I don't have time for the nonsense. They can find another idiot to put up with the backstabbing and what not.
NC on March 28, 2018:
I will try not to blame myself for being bullied by my coworker. Thank you for the advise.I was crying and couldn't have a sleep last night. I work at a small office and the management always solves things in the way they want to. In the past, several employees filed for the workplace harassment but everyone, except for the one who is a daughter of HR, was fired later for wrongful accusation or some other made-up reasons. If you are close to the management or a superstar at work, they will always protect you. The person who is bullying me is a superstar and harasses me without being noticed by anyone. If I make any action, I will be fired. It's been very hard in Calgary to get a job. I have submitted resumes to many companies for over a year, but I was never called for an interview. I wish I could quit my job...
Feeling sad on March 27, 2018:
I work in the mall And I have a guy that works in a store next to me he is bullying me laughing with other people when they wallk next to me pointing and laughing at me and Yelling Racist things at me even throw on me pennies and I told the mall about it and the mall said that as long as he's not hitting me then hes not doing something illegal and they don't do nothing about it.. so what I can do?
Mm on March 24, 2018:
Thank you so much... i had a similar situation and it has affected every part of my personal wellbeing and confidence. I need to step up and not let it affect me.
Amber Jeanette Gardner on March 18, 2018:
I was an abused kid. Got into a lot of trouble. At 21 I was assaulted and it resulted in a head injury (longer story). I was on disability for 7 years and I wanted a job. I messed up my first job royally. Lasted about 2 months because I was still so sick. About 6 months later I found another job at a fast food restaurant and it became a huge nightmare.
had two people throw punches at me, two different women grab my by the throat, I was sprayed me with cleaner, sexual harassment. I was mercilessly harassed by some and given the cold shoulder from others. One after the other after the other after the other. Sometimes it's was mobbing, sometimes it was individual.
I'm still there 6 years and 4 months later. I had an anxiety attack the other day which I'd never had before. A real one. I thought I was having a heart attack after yet another confrontation with a another co-worker. Today, had a young lady come in and she could not be bothered to speak to me. She stormed away from me knocking equipment into the floor and leaving it there after DARING to ask if she would bring up some cups. I'm a manager.
I'm finally done. 6 years and 4 months of non-stop straight torture, I am done. I toughed it this long thinking it would just follow me anywhere I go, but I have to take that chance.
PiRho on March 03, 2018:
Hi. The harassment at work is definitely nobody wants.From what I have seen, on your part, if someone is doing to you what you consider is bullying or inappropriate behavior, one of the first top strategies is to call them to the side and professionally express you don't appreciate, and would like a stop a specific sequence of actions that you deem in appropriate. If you are introvert by nature it can be daunting, but you can do it. One VERY effective method, if you are too nervous asking about it, send an email to them detailing everything you have observed, and how uncomfortable it is for you, and that you would appreciate if they stopped. 98% of BULLIES will swiftly disappear and not bother you again, because there is written evidence right there. Confronting the person in question does not necessarily mean you standing there to rationalize or argue with them. If you really nervous, then prepare the sequence messages you want to make to have them stop the undesirable, and to so very clearly and briefly, and then walk away, and DO NOT NEGLECT follow up with an email clearly stating the behavior you find deplorable. If after a verbal confrontation, or written one does not stop the action, you may send another more forceful one, making it perfectly clear that any further harassment will prompt you to go to management. They likely will disappear, and if not, submit your written and etc. Oh another thing too is that if your email system contains read receipts send your message and clearly express the fact you need an acknowledgement that they have read your message, and indicate that given no read receipts you are going to go and personally report them, and very likely you will be OK thereafter.
I am being personally harrassed by managers, who are trying to pressure me to quit, or to fabricate evidence. I do send myself amendments to continuously update the memorandum that and again reply to myself, then a progressive written record develops. It has gotten quite bad, I fired at them end professionally spelt out precisely what they are embarking on. Good luckn and hope the problem is resolved so you can proceed with your work in peace and not feeling uncomfortable, once the bad behavior towards you gets halted one way or the other.
Cath on February 05, 2018:
Thanks for your insight. I a female, I work in an all male environment. They are all great, except for one who recently started. I had no idea what I was about to experience was gonna effect me in the way it does. Telling lies, manipulation, playing us all off with each other, and now he's saying he's being bullied?? I wrote anonymous letters to HR because of his behaviour, his sexual, sleazy conversations which I felt uncomfortable with. But I was the one who got all the fleck. As he denied everything and I was put on probation. He is now telling lies about his home life so he doesn't have to do certain things. I find this so frustrating as he was, and is be believed over me and everyone else who has put in complaints about him. In all my years working there I have never came across the like. I love my job, get on with everyone and I don't want to leave. Please help.
Caroline on February 05, 2018:
Thank you for this very important article and sharing your story and resources. So much appreciation.
Fear of lusing my Job. on January 23, 2018:
How many documents do I need of bulling belittling bosses in CAL-Trans . Their has already been 3 deaths from insensitive behavior to full on bulling from bosses to upper management. I need help to stop the murder suicide to (Caltrans Lead Worker public hanging suicide. 1-18-18)
ALEXANDER on January 18, 2018:
As mentioned another very important factor is the secret meetings, always, always follow up to the person with a recap of your secret meeting with that person, what happened, who said what, ect..and cc any and all important relevant people. Again the more the merrier, the more people involved, the more the why birds fly down as to why did u not do something about this harassment. NOBODY really wants to be involved in harassment suites, terrible for your job references, and any hint of harassment either for or against you, can sink you into the land of unemployment forever. Harvey Weinstein yeah he is a bonus for those who are rich, and powerful and have tons of lawyers, which most do not have in the real world.
If you are dealing with multiple managers, supervisors ect who are harassing you, go one at a time, remember those wild animal vidoes, have you ever seen another zebra rush into the water to protect the other zebra against the alegator, helll no never. Same approach at work, one at a time, people will back away and will not want to be involved or risk their jobs, too back a harrassing boss, female or male, and yes chicks do it just as bad as the guys, just in a harassing way more than sexual...
ALEXANDER on January 18, 2018:
Interesting articles as it has become a high pattern of female on female bullying at work. Canada is rated as the 6th worst country for allowing bullying and harassment at work. I have seen 11 women turn there backs on one woman who was being harrassed by her male boss. 11 women so it tells you its both ways kiddies whether u like the reality or not. First of all document everything and I mean everything and send it to your private email, or copy it to take home with you. CC your supervisor so now he or she is involved and the why birds will ask him or her, why they did not do anything?? Secondly, NEVERRRR GO TO HR.. they will do nothing for you except try to get rid of you, HR never helps anyone period.
CC your supervisor about everything let them do their jobs that is what they get paid for, if they give you a hard time, cc other managers in your department, and even more if necessary, the more the merrier.
Your evidence will be key, as all HR fear lawsuites in this now the day of Harvey Weinstein and yes Oprah did know, but waited until some poor little woman had the guts to set this all about. It sickens me that so many women in power knew, but did nothing.
Yes some people will say goodbye to you at work but its better to be feared that liked, for like can turn to hate very quickly. With all that evidence docmented, all professional no emotional stuff, and names ccd, they will fear lawsuites but like any prison environment you will get respect and will keep your job, while your harassing manager, boss, ect will be let go. PROTECT YOURSELF, DO NOT GO SILENT
danell on January 14, 2018:
I am women working in kind of a mens world the security industry. Ive been here for almost a year now and from my fisrt day i was indimitated. But specifically by one idiot this idiot were just an controller like myself but he got promoted to a coordinator and since then he really made it hard for me to get up every morning and come to this dreadfull place. Others will make the same joke as myself then itds fine but when I do he isolates me from the whole team. Sometimes I dont even talk to him or would come to work being polite and friedly he would still isolate me. Our useless hr does not want to hear compliants. Ive become so depressed that I lose my apitite and sense for humour and I dont want go in public. I do not know what to do anymore I cant just quite this job I need the money.
Hearhrr on January 12, 2018:
Sorry, I forgot to add to that comment, that I’m only 18 very shy and don’t tend to stand up for myself
Diana Butt on January 12, 2018:
Am I being bullied. ...
I’m currently been working in my work place for 2 years.
My manager has been picking up on my work standards, making faults claims that I’m not doing my work correctly. Within the past four months I’ve received 3 written warnings for things I haven’t done, without any evidence that they’ve been done.
My “apparent” mistakes have been highlighted on the public staff notice board.
Photos of mistakes have been taken, blamed onto me, undated or timed, so I cannot confirm if I was actually at work on that date.
She constantly picks on me but no others.
I feel totally humiliated, hate going to work
I am currently awaiting a disciplinary for something she claims I’ve done but has no evidence
Anna on January 05, 2018:
This is such a great article. In the last paragraph, you refer to bullying as a travesty. Please, please, please change that to tragedy. Those words do not mean the same thing.
Craig on December 30, 2017:
I have a similar problem. When i started my job i worked hard to get my contract this was made hard by a managing director and a supervisor he had inapproriate relations with. She took a disliking to me and they both made my life extremely difficult, i suffer with severe anxiety and they are aware of this they used it to their advantage. unfortunately for them a number of other people submitted complaints at the same time as me and they were both dismissed. I had hoped the bullying would stop and i managed to quit smoking and started getting my life back on track but another member of staff took offense to this, he started to spread rumours about me attempting to turn people against me which was not hard for him, the people i work with all generally band together to bully people which means they all cover eachothers backs and use subtle tactics like following me to the bathroom and keeping an eye on me constantly making out that i dont do my job properly. I managed to dispel this notiok by working ten times harder and proving i am good at my job, so they altered their tactics and insinuated i am a trouble maker and they pinned the managing directors dismissal on my shoulders, now all staff in my workplace assumes i am a troublemaker no matter how much i keep my head down and do my job. To make matters worse they member of staff who started these rumours has been promoted to supervisor so he now hes more authority to make my life a misery he has started taking over my duties and setting me to do menial tasks. My anxiety is out of control and my depression getting worse even if my meds and therapy help i will still be made a target of since my managers are in this together. My personal situation is that i live alone i am a tennant to a private landlord. i am a male i have no partner and no kids i do not have anyone for support and now i am secluded in my work place, i have only just managed to get my life back on track at 30 years of age i do not have any savings as yet and i am attempting to complete my driving license. I do not have any qualifications and i have been between jobs because of my previous bad habits. I am an excellent worker and very intelligent i am a fast learner but because of my past i do not have many opportunities to earn a good living and have a good life, i have major confidence issues and a bad nervous complex i believe my anxiety depression and nervous complex stems from a possible personailty disorder but i am not very good at asserting myself so my doctor will not do any tests or consider any other illnesses they just prescribe me anti depressants and as i am completely alone i have no one who can support me or defend me. I am being walked all over and no matter how much i try to get my life back on track people are making it harder because i am an easy target. I need my job because i have bills to pay if i lose my job i lose my house and i lose everything i have been working towards. The people at work are well aware of this and this makes me an easier target for them so you see i am in a hopeless situation. I have absolutely nobody at work or in my personal life i can turn to for support and as it stands i am vulnerable to anyone who wants to take advantage and even the nhs are not willing to help. I am pretty desperate for any advice please anything or any service i can turn to. Email me if you have any advice please email@example.com
Lisa on November 23, 2017:
I was bullied in a factory from 2003 to 2005 many years back it was verbal abuse name calling back stabbing and being screamed at by two work colleagues I didn't report this due to the shame and embrassment I'm not a confident person and ended up with very ill health due to this. I ended up having a nervous breakdown in 2009 and left working in the factory. I since had a volunteer job which I loved but the supervisor also had bullying tactics to me she insulted me in front of others and public huminated and degraded me about my weight and the size of my chest. I had another breakdown soon afterwards I reported her to the manager about her unapproiate words and bullying behavior no action was taken against the supervisor I thought it was unprofessional and degrading what she said to me. I had to go back on sick because of this. No body should be degraded or public huminiated no matter who you are. It brought back the bullying episode many years before. I've not work since I now suffer from panic disorder and anxiety
Jill on November 22, 2017:
This is a great article, especially the App recommendation. I am in HR and will be recommending this to the employees in my organization.
Bullying happens at all levels in organizations, sadly I haven't been exempt.
Sana on November 14, 2017:
Tori, so true that is what happened to me and after 2 years it is still happening..
Gina on November 04, 2017:
Thank you for your article it was great reading really opened my mind.
I have just experienced workplace bullying to its worst kind to the point of not going back. The anixety and mental stress on my health is very draining and loss of sleep is
The hard part is the dishonesty and the negative remarks that are made.
The isolation was deafening to the point of suicidal thoughts. I spent a lot of my days on my own people were ignoring.
Thanks again for listening
innerseeker on November 04, 2017:
I came from a foreign country 11 years ago. I had been working almost 9 months at this immigration attorney firm before I was fired for complaining the bullies. I did the accounting job and manage the contracts, etc., didn’t handle the clients’ cases. I was nice and respectful to everyone at work but still became the target of workplace bullying. The firm is very good at bullying. The bullies know who the target is and actively to do this. When I just started working, I was told the boss did yelling and name calling toward the employees.
I will mainly tell about what the most bullying person and the CFO did to me. The bully is also an immigrant like me. He accused me of the “errors” which I proved by emails I had sent addressing the issues before that I had taken care of the issues and these are not my fault. He also let me correct other staffs’ errors, confused responsibilities. He sent me the emails about the questions are not specific; I had to spent much more time to figure out. I pointed these issues out to him; this made him and the CFO unhappy. Then they picked on me much more harder. He once said to my boss in front of me that his prior employer had said if the employee did not fit in the culture, let he or she go and they can get cheaper and better one. The boss trusts him very much.
I got my bachelor degree on accounting two years ago and graduated as an honor student. I cherish this job very much. I know people value the team work in this country, but not in this firm. I did the work very carefully and try to be professional and cooperative. I did what I was asked to do, such as substitute the receptionists while they are at lunch, and do some translation when they needed. I wish if I do perfect, they cannot pick on me and can reduce the abuses. Because I can prove myself I am competent person and not let the bully accuse me of the errors he made up and was impossible for me to make. The CFO, another bully, who just works at the firm two days a week, was also angry with me. She blamed me of having problem of communication. She didn’t know and was reluctant to learn that how many emails I sent and how I reached out persons to resolve the issues. When I sought the communication with her, she was angry with me and blamed me of working like a robot.
The situations got escalated two weeks ago. After the weekly meeting, I received an email from the bully. He let me to go upstairs and bring the boss’ note he gave to me the night before. The boss was waiting for us. I don’t know exactly what the notes mean and ask him that evening; he said he didn’t know either. But I cannot find the notes which should be on my desk then. I looked at everywhere including rest room and kitchen. But no found and I have to go to meet them without the note. When I came to the upstairs, he was sitting with our boss. He showed me the note. And I felt relief and also weird. How can he get this in my office without acknowledging me? And I said, “I look everywhere for it.” The boss saw me and got up and left. The bully pointed at the contract that client signed and asked me what happened to the contract.” I looked at the contract and try to answer his questions with the possible answer I can think of without knowing what he really want to know, because this question is not specific again. I had to show him my cooperative to prevent from inducing any conflicts and being humiliated by him. At the end of my answer I said I still needed check the System which used to record the contracts to figure out. Because I opened so many cases, without checking the system, I had no way to answer whatever his question is. He seemed he didn’t listen to my answer and continued to draw a timeline to illustrate the period of time during which what happened to the contract. It seemed like I didn’t understand his question. He also became more rude and aggressive and raised his voice. The question doesn’t make any sense. I feel like I was interrogated like a criminal. I said what’s wrong with you, I told you I need to check in the system and then can answer you. He was absolutely furious and glared at me standing up and left. I asked for the papers about case and want to check in the system. He didn’t give to me. We went back to offices separately. He gathered the other two staffs in accounting department to talk to them. I was asked to join them later. Till then, I was told what the problem really was. The issue is that a paralegal said she didn’t get the folder I created and put on the ledger under her name. What a big deal? I can just simply search my emails to find out if I had sent this case to her by email. If I did, I can pretty sure I had gave the folder to the paralegal because the email sent was based on the folder created, designed by work process. They suggested me to get the signature list from the receipents from now on to prevent this from happening again. This has been first time happened since I started working here. It was very weird. The CFO also joined us. Without asking what the issue was and began to teach me her “gravity theory”. She concluded because the accounting department is at the half basement floor, the lowest level of the building, we need to bear the weight (Pressure) from second floor (where the clients are received) and third floor (where the paralegals and attorneys are working) due to the gravity theory. What an explanation of the great theory! Who does she want to bear the gravity? Obviously it is me. She wanted me got bullied, criticized by anybody would like to. I stopped her and said I would discuss the issue with another member of the department who are the sister of the boss. I have been asking her whenever I had some questions and seek the help from her before, given the CFO worked two day a week here. The CFO said not to talk this with her and this is for your safe. I said I didn’t think not speaking up was for my safe.
I talked to my boss’ sister when she came. I said I wanted to sue and complain about the bully. What he had done to me is bullying. This affected me very much that I cannot concentrate to work and fell upset. I told her the process of the incident. I said I couldn’t allow him to do this to me again. And I think this conflict shouldn’t have happened. I didn’t want this happened. I just would like him to treat me like a person and fairly. He absolutely can be straight forward to me and let me know what happened or what I need to do, instead of interrogate me like a criminal, to humiliate and sabotage me like this. She let the CFO joined us to discuss together. The CFO accused me of stopping her to speak. I said she is bias. She was reluctant to learn how the bully had been treating me and just accused of me. She said this is the culture. She was born here. She knows. I told the boss’ sister about her Gravity theory, about her intimidating me not to tell for my safe and calling me working like a robot. I told the CFO I didn’t take this. The CFO said it was true and I shouldn’t work here. I said I did nothing wrong, Why? The boss’ sister said the bully do these to me because of his male chauvinism personality. Can this be an excuse? I ask what the culture they want me to fit in? What on earth they need me to do? No answer. The CFO asked me if I communicated this way with my husband at home. I told her I don’t want to talk about this. She blamed me of not letting her speak. But the topic she raised I really cannot talk about. I think her question is not relevant to the bullying problem we were talking about. She got mad with me and left. The boss’ sister finally agreed to talk with the bully.
Another morning, I met with the bully and told him if he ever took things from my office again, I would call the police. He sent an email to the accounting department and said he had just wanted to be proactive about the boss’ question, this would not happen again. But he required me to write down what I just said. I ignored him. I just wanted him to take this seriously. Later I talked to the boss’ sister and told him I say so to him just let him know I was not OK with his bad behavior. I wish he could change because this was
Tara on October 31, 2017:
I'm currently in this situation... My Office mate does everything that she can to portray herself as a sweet woman who would never harm a fly. But she likes to gossip and bash people behind their backs all the time. After a particularly bad week of her doing this type of stuff and then deciding that I was her personal yes-man I told her that I just want a professional relationship and some space from her. She's spent the last 3 months filing complaints against me, convincing everyone at work that I'm a bully, and isolating me as best as she can. I'm lucky that I have a few people here who just don't buy it and a few more who know what she's like. But that being said... I am looking to leave and she is the sole reason.
Human.1 on October 24, 2017:
I have worked for a governmental social services agency for over 20 years. Up until a year ago, I have had very positive performance evaluations and received kudos from many work associates.
One year ago, A woman I hired about 10 years earlier became my boss. Since that time, I have been investigated for personnel actions 4 times I am at the end of a process that will most likely result in being fired.
My new supervisor and 3 of my peers (all female) have been making allegations which are either completely false or greatly overstate reality. They have had "secret meetings" I have even had a couple of staff members tell me I was being mobbed. It has become clear that our HR department is complicit.
I was sent home (paid) for almost two months and was never told exactly what I had done although there were whispers about my threatening someone and have a gun in my car (completely false).
My last investigative interview lasted over 3 hours and took on the tone of the Spanish Inquisition.
I have hired an attorney and filed complaints with Human Rights and EEOC. These agencies are SLOW to act.
I have been having cardiac and gastric problems as well as headaches. As a social service professional, It amazes me just how horrific these people are being and the extent to which they will go.
Renee on October 22, 2017:
Thank you so much for posting this article - it is so helpful for me since I have just had my first workplace bullying / harassment experience.
Fortunately, I chose to exit the job and am now away from the harassment and the toxicity of the environment the manager creates; however, I have been personally and professionally affected negatively by it! While it is likely my career and reputation may never be the same again; I am hopeful I will get back to being strong, confident me again! It is articles and comments such as these which are helpful to me in trying to make sense of the experience so I can heal and get off the emotional rollercoaster I have been on this year. What a ride it has been and this gal will be glad to see it end!
Shaniqua Jones on October 19, 2017:
Bullies are mean :(
Karmer on October 17, 2017:
I remember someone who was a bully back in my school days - unfortunately he was my team leader on the job i had - he tried to turn all my work colleagues against me and made me think that i couldn't do my work properly - i knew if i left my job they would of won - so i gritted my teeth and lasted till the end of my training - i made a complaint about my team leader and he was then demoted from his position, i heard he was so angry and humiliated and it served him right.
Tiffany on October 15, 2017:
Yesterday I made a mistake at work (im a cashier) and the customer was making a payment and she handed me a $100 bill but once I had put in she wanted to make a $100 dollar payment she then said it was actually $30.. I was furious. That now counted as a loss towards the store and it technically was MY fault.
Samantha on September 09, 2017:
True bullying doesn't help workplace morale and efficiency. Hazardous to the employee's health and also their livelihood, especially if the employee is a healthcare provider !!!!!
ME on September 03, 2017:
I need to do something about it, is being very stressful all over...
I would like to find a strong lawyer that would like to help me , not just for me.
Has been out of control for while... I'm still there for reasons ... " being mobbed is painful "
Prestin Johnson on August 31, 2017:
I'm suffering from a bully like I used to be. I used to be really good at my job and so I would expect my peers to listen to me even though I wasn't the boss - I didn't understand that concept of "boss" which really just means the person everybody on the crew reports to. When you are the rookie, it's good to be given the Faith that you're going to try your hardest, and that eventually you're going to be just as good as them. Everybody goes through a learning stage but when you're struggling and aren't realizing their help is needed and helpful sometimes you think it would be better without them - even though in their own way they're contributing. You just don't know how! I appreciate greatly this post - you really addressed it well, thank you!
Candace on August 30, 2017:
My bully is my boss, which therefore the other employees follow suit. I have been here 4 years and it has been the same since day 1. I am afraid to stand up for myself because I have a family to provide for and cannot afford to lose this job, especially in this economy. I am also pregnant which seems to be treated like a sin since my boss doesn't have children and makes very blatant and insulting remarks about how children are terrible, disgusting, stupid and so on.
I want to do something about it. I learned how to document incidents through this article. So thank you. It will hopefully prove to be useful in the future.
There is also a lot of very good advice as well. Thank you.
Jean on August 18, 2017:
Thank you for the article, the 10 strategies are useful tools to keep in mind.
It is sad to see so many bulling incidents happen around world in every corner of our workplaces.
The bullies use isolation to seperate the victims from the group. The bullies often develop a support group around them, it makes almost impossible for someone not align with them to obtain a job let alone to survive.
The bullies want reaction from you, so keep calm and not react to their pathetic play.
The bullies want to win and gain power.
Look after yourself. Expend your support network outside of your workplace.
Keep your goal in mind and plan exit.
Sue McElfresh on June 18, 2017:
I also left my job of 19 yrs due to bullying, it was devastating to be ganged up on by 5 people, 2 of which were supervisors. No help from anyone, union, HR, nobody wanted to go anywhere near that, or they themselves would have been targeted. Due to all that it took me awhile to heal and understand what made me a target in the first place, and find the strength to find another job, but bullying is in every workplace. Pray, pray and pray some more the Lord is with each and everyone of us. God Bless
Mick on June 01, 2017:
I work in the steel industry with lots of weak managers who think they're above everyone because they haven't done the hard yards and got their job because they have family or mates in there and abuse the system. Do as I tell you, not as I do. That won't wash with me! I'm not the sort of bloke to take that crap, man up or you'll cop a beating in a very physical and humiliating way with me. I might add I'm also a biker, but not necessarily a tough guy. While I have had numerous criminal assault charges over the years, I don't care when it comes to low life managers who think they're tough. They won't look so tough going home with a black eye and a split lip to their spouses for their trouble.
RCP on May 23, 2017:
I am bullied at work and the aggressor is insanely jealous person. She has even spilled over into my personal life. The other people know how much of a bitch she is they don't cross her.
They don't like me and don't like me to speak up. I have to work. It is a fess pool of people from the management down
Laura on May 05, 2017:
Thank you for the article.
I will never forgive the male superior who yelled at me and called my work "a pile of shit!"
I was so traumatised by the verbal abuse at work that I had to visit a psychiatrist. I was diagnosed with acute depression....
Words can hurt and going to work is no longer the same!
Sarah on May 05, 2017:
Thank you for sharing your story and providing this advice. It has made someone in a similar situation feel better and a little stronger :-)
Sharilee Swaity (author) from Canada on April 05, 2017:
@Jennifer Anne, thanks so much for your comment. I am sorry this brought back so many bad memories. It sounds like you were experiencing severe bullying. I am glad you were able to leave that workplace and I wish you all the best. Thanks again for your thoughtful comments. God bless you, too. I pray healing for you after those terrible experiences. Take care.
jennifer anne on April 04, 2017:
I feel your pain so much. This makes me fall into a deep sadness as I was bullied in the year from past 2 jobs in 2015 - 2017 by awful departmental work cliques. This one guy would follow me around and make hurtful comments to me to the women in the office. I hated him (and still do) so much. The last job I had a shitty senior woman always scream at me and berate me then she would put eye drops to make it look like I WAS BEING MEAN TO HER. Then the girl next to me would say what did you do to her? They all conspired together to make my 8 hours at hell at work. Gosh I really really hate these people. They truly are energy vampires with evil intentions. BTW I did nothing wrong and came in on time and went in EVERY DAY!!!!! WTF ..... I again feel your pain. God Bless you and much prosperity and longevitiy at your workplace. Good peaceful energy to you.
Mary F on March 24, 2017:
I have a question. Several weeks ago a Sr. level co-worker sent an e-mail, which I felt he was trying to intimidate me with his position in the company, after responding professionally and without emotion I reported to one of my supervisors by telephone and also via email stating that I felt like he was trying to bully/intimidate me. I have followed up with supervisor weekly and am not getting real response or action. What should I do next?
Sharilee Swaity (author) from Canada on March 07, 2017:
@Kissadtales, thanks so much for your beautiful comment. And I agree with you -- it does show what a cruel society we live in, with bullying being so commonplace these days. It seems to be every man (or woman) for themselves. And for sure, it takes courage to stand up to those who are behaving this way. Thanks for the reference to Jesus ... he truly was the true advocate for the bullied. Take care and God bless you!
Sharilee Swaity (author) from Canada on March 07, 2017:
@Mapol, thanks so much for sharing your story and insight. That is great that you had the wherewithal to know how to handle the situation and stand up for yourself. Take care.
Sharilee Swaity (author) from Canada on March 07, 2017:
@Liya, I am so glad it was helpful and that you are actually getting out of your situation. For sure, documentation sure is the key but we often don't know that until it's too late. Thanks so much for your comment and have a good day!
Sharilee Swaity (author) from Canada on March 07, 2017:
@Andrew, thanks so much for the comment. if it is the actual owners, you don't have much recourse, unfortunately. The owners create the company climate and it is unlikely to ever change. I wish you the best in your situation. It sounds like it is tough.
Kissandtales on March 05, 2017:
Thank you for this Hub of importance ! To be bullied can happen just about anywhere these days. Just was reading how a young teen was bullied by classmates wrapped up in plastic and dunked in toilet. Then returned him to the class room.
The teacher did nothing to save him. He tried to reach her desk and fell against it and broke his esophagus or wind pipe when he fell. So sad ! Bulling is just another open avenue to murder people in a suttle way that escalates to that end.
Your hub is showing that we are living in a inhumane type of thinking even in the workplace people go to work to victimize other humans.
I really think these are the weaker people because they are followers of the majority's.they can not do the right thing being cowards they just march at others actions.
Its a strong and brave person that can stand up against the odds .
There is always a reward reflecting his righteous and beautiful ways.
Thank you for sharing.
Andrew on March 03, 2017:
How can I actually report something when it's your actual owners doing it
Liya on February 19, 2017:
Thanks very much for this article. I'm just getting out of that situation and this is very helpful information for the future. Yes,Documentation!!