Canada: One in four affected by workplace bullying

from 24 Hours News Service

Think bullying is a uniquely adolescent problem? Think again.

Disrespect at work is costing Canadian companies $20,000 per employee per year, says Erica Pinsky, a workplace bullying and harassment expert, who helps companies avoid these costs and eliminate disrespectful, power-based behaviours.

“Workplace bullying is so prevalent that one out of four employees are affected. You need to find out about disrespectful/power-based behaviours in your workplace. If you walk into a room and are met with silence, you know there’s a problem,” Pinsky says.

She recommends companies should start asking questions about power in their organization; for example, who has it and how is it being used?

Adopt respect as a core value and lead by example. Hold yourself and everyone else accountable until being respectful becomes the way it is in your organization.