Management Needs to Address Workplace Bullying

A significant number of employees say they've been bullied on the job, according to a recent survey from CareerBuilder. Many have even left their company due to the problem, and a stunningly high percentage of physically disabled workers say they've been bullied at work—a finding that seems hard to fathom. What defines bullying? While often a gray area, it typically involves what CareerBuilder describes as a "gross lack of professionalism, consideration and respect" that involves "intimidation, personal insults or behavior that is more passive-aggressive." Whatever the form, these practices appear to affect a lot of professionals, regardless of their background or organizational standing. "Bullying impacts workers of all backgrounds, regardless of race, education, income and level of authority within an organization," says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder. "Many of the workers who have experienced this don't confront the bully or elect not to report the incidents, which can prolong a negative work experience that leads some to leave their jobs." Clearly, bullying is a serious workplace issue that management must address. More than 3,370 employees took part in the research.