What is Workplace Bullying & Harassment? How can I identify it and what should I do?
the impacts of bullying & harassment
Workplace bullying and harassment is a serious and growing issue. Not only can it be damaging to your people and business, if not handled well, it can also lead to workers compensation claims, higher premiums and potentially legal action.
With legislation now in place specifically addressing workplace bullying, it’s vital to give it the same attention as other work health and safety matters. This means due diligence in terms of policies, staff training, compliance and clear processes.
The Good News
Often, workplace bullying comes not from ill intent, but rather miscommunication and misunderstanding. Which is exactly where proactive communication training can help. When both parties are equipped to communicate issues effectively, discussions can be more practical and less personal.
How the resolution network can help
The Resolution Network can facilitate mediation if you’ve received a specific bullying or harassment complaint and/or we can assist with training and coaching to help prevent bullying and minimise the risk.
It’s also important to be aware of the link between performance management and bullying. Staff who are being disciplined or questioned by management regarding their role can sometimes make an allegation of bullying. So it’s important to know how to correctly handle conversations regarding performance management and have clearly articulated processes to minimise the risk.
Who are our services for?
Business owners and managers who have never managed a bullying and/or harassment complaint before or need assistance
Team members who need support to be able to raise concerns with either management or another team member about behaviour they believe is unacceptable
Agreed process for working through disputes due to differences of opinion about appropriate and inappropriate behaviour in the workplace
Business owners and managers who want to demonstrate the clear process they have followed in response to a bullying and/or harassment complaint
An independent process to support conversations between a team member and management with respect to performance and behaviour in the workplace
Benefits to your business
Address issues quickly and correctly to avoid drawn out complaints.
Minimise the risks of a workers compensation claim, which then results in higher premiums.
Get the professional assistance you need to navigate the complex and difficult scenarios.
Reduce the occurrence of absenteeism, stress leave and staff turnover, as well as the resulting costs and productivity losses.
Identify the root cause of behaviour that is unacceptable and help team members agree on appropriate workplace conduct.
Ensure team members understand what is expected of them in terms of their behaviour or response to behaviour they feel is inappropriate.
How do I find out more?
Get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can support you with resolving and mitigating bullying and harassment inside your business.