Unfortunately, workplace bullying is all too common. According to the TNO, half a million employees are victims of bullying, of which 80,000 are structural. So it is a serious problem that needs to end very soon. But can you be responsible for that? Here are seven signs you might be a bully at work.
1. Weaken people's strengths and emphasize their weaknesses. Do you mock a co-worker when they speak in meetings or do you dismiss their ideas? If your coworkers don't look you in the eye or are nervous in your company, it could be because of your behavior. Silence in meetings can be a clue… are your colleagues afraid to speak their mind?
2. Name-calling or inappropriate humor:If no one is laughing or responding to your jokes, you may have crossed the line. Bullies may try to undermine someone by calling them names or making jokes in disguise. You might try to omit inappropriate comments.
3. Is someone trying to push you to the limit? If you find yourself on a short fuse or losing your temper with one person on a regular basis, yelling at them could be considered bullying. Ask yourself what it is about this person that irritates you. Take the time to get to know them and how they're put together, you may have more in common than you think – or you may see a flaw in yourself in this person.
4. Do people stop talking when you walk into a room? Are you the last to find out when there's a birthday or a night out? If you find yourself being banned from social activities and none of your colleagues are friends with you on Facebook, then maybe it's time to ask yourself why.
5. Active Ignorance:An example of this is choosing to deliberately ignore co-workers for team events or gatherings, even if there are reasons for them to attend.
6. You are quick to blame others for problems that arise, you make personal attacks or single out team members:This can manifest in Jekyll and Hyde type traits where people can be particularly annoying or vindictive in isolated environments away from others, and then be very supportive in a group.
7. It's Your Way or No Other:There's no diplomacy, you're always right. A classic example is to surround yourself with yes marbles. If your colleagues seek advice or support from others, even when they are working on your team, you should ask yourself why you are not being asked for help.
