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Some existential reflections having been bullied at various jobs. * You're there to do a job firstly, which is easy to forget in a social workplace. Focus as much of your energy on this as possible. * Don't try to make friends at work. In fact, avoid making friends at work altogether outside of the expected degree of social participation. * Don't brag about work/salary, especially if you're a high performer. Otherwise, you'll be a target. * Lay low, do your work, and document all incidents with evidence. Raise the issue in private to your superior, then HR -- in writing. If it's serious enough, you may wish to speak to an attorney. (I'd reserve contacting an attorney for egregious, ongoing bullying/harassment if unaddressed by your company internally). Do bear in mind HR is in support of the company -- you're a human resource to be managed in the interest of the company. Consider this when engaging HR. Be unemotional, factual, and sympathetic to the needs of the job first. Avoid any form of direct confrontation with the bully(s), don't react, don't discuss it with co-workers, and remain unemotional at least externally. * How you react and handle the bullying is what others will perceive, including management. It's the same as childhood playground bullying. The bully intends to elicit a reaction, then point the finger to support the negative arguments being made behind your back. Keep this in mind, stay quiet, document, prepare, and take calculated responsive action. Good luck, and I hope you learn from my mistakes. Being an empath is a gift but is a double edged sword. |