Bullying Bosses Effects on the Workplace
Bad bosses are one of the top reasons why employees choose to leave an employer.
Bully bosses will terrorize both male and female employees although the majority of employees whom suffer from this incivility tend to be female. Women tend to be victimized more than men because they are perceived to be weaker and incapable of defending themselves. Bullies thrive off of picking on others weaknesses. Although 95% of bullying is witnessed there are far fewer incidents that are reported to an authority figure that can stop the behavior. Many bystanders will not get involved out of fear of being victimized themselves or even losing their position. Other employees may not get involved because they think that the manager is just tough or having a bad day, rather than behaving like a bully. If bullying bosses are not confronted and the environment remains status quo there can be serious consequences to the company and individuals that are being victimized.
Employees who deal with a bully boss day in and day out tend to be less productive and have greater health issues than those with fair and just managers. Employees need to take a tactful approach when dealing with a bullying boss. It is not an easy conversation to have for any employee. However, if employees let the behavior persist there are few options that will be left in the end. Employees will need to face the bully head on or move on to another company. The harmful effects of bullying on any person can only be tolerated for so long. The best way to handle a bully, regardless of which type of management style your boss has is to talk to them.
Employees are not the only victims when a bullying manager is present at a company. The organization itself will suffer tremendously if bullying behavior is allowed to persist. Employees will produce less; have higher levels of absenteeism due to health issues, have lower employee morale and be less loyal to the company. The cost of losing productivity during business hours can be staggering for an organization. Employee health issues can also cost a company in the millions due to the lack of work being produced, sick pay and higher health care premiums. If a company fosters a bully friendly environment employee morale will be extremely low and will result in internal conflict and high turnover rates.
Companies should start by recruiting diverse candidates with strong cultural fit. They also need to have a policy in place that clearly states that harassment and incivility will not be tolerated and that all employees are expected to treat each other with respect. As mentioned previously however, just having a policy will not guarantee that it is read or followed. It is up to the management team to monitor not only employee behavior but also other managers’ behavior when interacting with peers. If a company sets their expectations in a clear manner such that all employees, regardless of level, must adhere to the policies implemented there will be less oversight when the culture is not followed.
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