Most employers are aware of the importance of stopping bullying in the workplace but few have thought about how to repair the damage once a bully is removed or their behaviour changes.
- Acknowledge that bullying is a common problem in all organisations. Give the employees the names of managers and professional counselors who are available for confidential discussions immediately after the bullying episode.
- Offer an employee the chance to enroll in courses to improve communication, participation in team meetings and assertiveness.
- Follow up the courses by offering the opportunity to take part in practical exercises in which the employee can role-play difficult conversations with colleagues and other managers. It is important that they have experience of hearing the right words come out of their mouth.
- Send a colleague with an employee to support them during difficult meetings. The colleague can subtly set the meeting back on track if the employee loses control of the conversation. The colleague can later test the performance of the employee by offering an objective perspective.
- Encourage the employee to exercise their skills outside the organisation in an industry association event or in a volunteer capacity for a charity.
- Appoint the employee to special projects that focus on the work tasks they enjoy and perform well. Praise good performance publicly to build the employee's profile in the organisation.
- Set aside time for regular meetings with the employee and let them know that you are available for confidential discussions of any problems that may arise in the future.
- Remember that bullying can lead to serious psychological damage. If the employee continues to display moodiness out of proportion to recent events, increased irritability and frustration, has trouble accepting minor personal criticisms or is taking unnecessary risks, remind the employee that professional counselling is available.
Buy Ricky Nowak's Audio Seminar CD from the Resource Centre:
Presentation Skills For High Performance Results
Bosses, Bullies And Bystanders