Workplace bullying remains rife

News Article - 30 July 2010
Category: Business

Data from a recent study by HR consultancy Reabur.com reveals 21% of workers feel bullied by their boss, while a further 28% feel victimised by a co-worker. The study, which questioned 1298 people, found that women are more likely to experience workplace bullying, with 31% feeling bullied at some point compared to 17% of men.

Whilst the incidence of bullying remains high, few workers escalate concerns and report bullying to appropriate figures, with less than one in ten victims notifying the HR department of the situation. 24% notify a colleague and a larger proportion (73%) discuss the issue with their spouse.

Victimised workers generally feel more intimidated by male bullies than females, with 19% of respondents reporting victimisation by a male colleague: 14% report bullying instigated by a female.

When asked why the bullying was instigated, 41% of respondents believe the culprit was 'intimidated by their abilities,' with a further 29% feeling status in the office had caused the victimisation to begin. 48% feel picked on due to physical appearance, and 29% believe their manager actively dislikes them. 22% feel their manager is 'under qualified' for the role, with 32% believing them to be 'incompetent.'

Bullying remains a significant concern for companies, who risk losing key talent and rising recruitment costs if the situation is not rectified. 57% of respondents who feel bullied at work are actively searching for a new position; 37% 'dread' going to work every day. 36% admitted workplace bullying affects their personal life. With the marketplace picking up in the post-recession climate, unhappy workers will soon find it easier to find alternative work.

Even for companies that do not lose employees, productivity losses associated with workplace bullying can significantly impact the bottom line.

Access HR software, in particular the HR administration module allows grievances to be easily tracked through each stage and for information on the situation to be readily documented and instantly located at a later date. By showing concern for employee welfare in the face of victimisation, companies can help foster a more inclusive and productive office environment.

For more information, please call Access on 0845 345 3300.

Article keywords: HR consultancy, Reabur.com, workplace bullying, HR department, Access HR software, HR administration module, employee welfare

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