Watch for warning signs that an employee may become violent

By Doug Walker, Rome News-Tribune

There’s no such thing as a typical criminal, but most criminals do display many common characteristics. John Weeks, president and chief executive officer of IntelliQuest Consulting, briefed more than 30 Rome small business leaders on issues related to safety around the workplace at the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday.

Weeks, who had a long history in law enforcement in Bartow County before going into the consulting business, said workplace violence continues to escalate as a problem.

“However most of these situations and things that happen could have been avoided,” said Weeks.

Weeks said the most common form of workplace violence involves simple assaults, followed by aggravated assaults, robberies, rapes and even 1,000 homicides in the workplace every year.

“Only the big ones make the headlines,” Weeks said.

Awareness, communication and preparation are keys to preventing violence in the workplace according to Weeks. Terminations are among the most common flashpoints for violence, and Weeks told the Chamber group that it’s important to plan ahead when terminating an employee.

Weeks even suggested it would be a good idea to assist the terminated employee with his or her resume as means of dealing more effectively with the soon to be ex-employee.

Common characteristics of criminals include people with low self-esteem and those with extremely selfish attitudes. Weeks said it’s not unusual to hear someone with a potentially serious problem say, “I was overlooked for a promotion, and I’m unappreciated.”

Other warning signs cited by Weeks include people who actually make verbal threats.

“Take them seriously,” said Weeks. Other warning signs include irrational behavior, displays of unwarranted anger and the inability to take criticism.

Weeks said that when an employee expresses plans to hurt themselves or others, it’s frequently a plea for help.

“Homicide has become less personal,” Weeks said.

Weeks also provided tips to safeguard data on computers at work. He suggested using an acronym for a favorite phrase as a password as opposed to personal information that might be readily available. His example, AcedaQT, which stands for “All cops eat donuts at Quick Trip.”

Weeks said safety is not always convenient and reminded the business audience that each individual is ultimately responsible for his or her own safety.

The Chamber of Commerce Small Business Action Council sponsored the seminar.