So, you recognise that what is happening to you is bullying. Now, what can you do about it?

The first and most important thing to do, is to gather together the history of what has happened and to document it as fully as you can, with dates, times, who did it, who it was done to, and who else was a witness to it. Everything needs to be listed, even the stuff that seems really petty. Dozens of small pinpricks can create a large sore. The accumulation of small insults has a huge impact on self-esteem and work performance. Once you have written this out, then you add to it as things happen. This is the basis for any further action you take. Just writing all this out will have an impact on you. You have taken some action and are no longer stuck and helpless. You can start to see that it is the behaviour of the other person that is the problem, that it is not all you. 

What then to do with this written information? You may decide just to leave once you have seen it all written out, but does it need to be taken somewhere? There are a few options, but first find out if your workplace has a complaints procedure, and/or a workplace policy about bullying.  If it does, make sure you follow the procedure to the letter – there is no point in giving the bully any further ammunition. Then you can decide whether to take it to your union, to your HR department, to the labour department or to an employment lawyer. (There are some who will only charge a fee if they win the case.) 

Making an official complaint against someone is a big step to take and can be very stressful, so if you are going to do this, you need to make sure you have support systems in place, such as family, workmates friends etc. as well as your union rep or lawyer. You may also need to see someone like me, or your GP for more professional help to deal with the emotions that these situations trigger.

An important thing to remember is that work is what we do to earn a living – it is not our whole life. Of course it is a bonus and blessing if we enjoy our work, but work life needs to be balanced with our home life, friends and interests. Whatever action you decide to take about bullying in your workplace, remember to also take time out for pleasure with family and friends. That will help support you through any tough times.