Coping with Aggressive Behavior in the Workplace

What steps should you take when directly confronting a bully?

• Protect your self-esteem.
• Assert yourself by identifying the offending behavior and insisting it stop.
• If the behavior is directed at your work or work ethic, ask to see the specific metrics you're failing to meet and for a detailed explanation of how you're falling shy of that mark.

What further steps can you take to defend yourself against a bully?

• Factually record all incidents and gather any other evidence or witnesses.
• Take your complaint to a higher authority, either in management or in your Human Resources Department.
• Remain open, honest, and forthright in all of your relationships.

Overview/Description

Hostile and aggressive behaviors are prevalent in many contexts – even the workplace. This Business Impact Series product explores the phenomenon of bullying in the workplace and strategies for responding assertively.

Target Audience

Professionals in non-managerial roles who wish to improve their assertiveness