Workplace Bullying Awareness Week
October 16th thru the 22nd is Workplace Bullying Awareness Week. When I saw this headline it got me wondering how prevalent was bullying in the workplace since the world re-opened after Covid-19. I had not seen any new statistics since the beginning of the pandemic and I am curious as to where things now stood statistically in relation to workplace bullying.
I went on a online search and found that the government of Canada had published the results of a recent bullying survey; I have summarized the survey and it’s findings for you.
The title of the survey is ‘Harassment and Sexual Violence in the Workplace Public Consultations What We Heard’, and is published by Employment and Social Development Canada. You can read the full report here: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/workplace-harassment-sexual-violence.html
The survey took place online from February 14th to March 9th 2017 with 1349 respondents participating. 82% of the respondents identified as female.
This surveyed showed over 60% of respondents reporting having experienced harassment in the workplace. Many specified that they were the targets for sexual harassment, violence, and even sexual violence. The majority of people experiencing harassment were women and members of a visible minority.
Sadly, similar results to previous surveys that I have reviewed.
One of the suggestions that came from this survey is the need for education on the topic in the workplace. Informing employees of the policies in place to prevent bullying and harassment and how to safely report incidents.
Developing awareness of the issue is also reported as a necessary step to take in countering workplace bullying and harassment. I think one of the best places to start is by having a conversation.
This week, while you have your team meetings, or while getting your morning coffee; start a conversation.
Share what you have heard about the prevalence of bullying and harassment in the workplace. Ask your colleagues for their perspective and be open to hear what they may have to say. It could surprise you!
One reason bullying practices are able to continue in such large measures is often the fear of reprisal or of losing your job, or your status at work. Fear often comes from the unknown and the uncertain.
Talk about bullying in your workplace. Bring this topic out of the dark corners. Starting a discussion helps to remove any stigmas attached to a subject, it can also help to promote a safer environment for people to share their stories and what has been happening for them.
Shine a light on bullying in your workplace, and let’s talk.