Tips for Dealing With the Workplace Bully

Few things are as frustrating as attempting to work around someone with a bad attitude and a vindictive personality. These coworkers let no opportunity to embarrass you pass, they are always there to criticize you and they refuse to provide the information you request. At every turn the attempt to damage you, belittle you or discredit you. This is a workplace bully.

According to a poll conducted on About.com nearly three out of four people have someone at work that creates regular stress for them. These people make coming to work a chore because they demand, insult and treat people rudely. If you are feeling this way about a coworker and he or she simply won't let up there are some options for you.

Options for Dealing with Workplace Bullies:

1.) The Human Resource Department: Ask your human resource representative if something can be done about a person, who habitually bullies you, embarrasses you and asks you to do their work. Tell them that you don't feel comfortable around this person and would like something done.

2.) Ignore This Person's Comments: Sometimes when you don't get upset, chuckle and walk away you have deflated this person's ability to anger you. In many of these cases the person will move on to someone else who does get upset. There is a risk that if they feel they are not being challenged then they may continue or get emboldened. Ignoring the person is usually the first step.

3.) Challenge Them: You can always show them that you aren't an easy target by being firm but polite. Engaging in banter is likely to increase the chances that you will get involved in a knock down drag out turf war. However, by simply being firm you may be putting a person on notice that you don't think they are funny.

4.) Find Another Job: As a last resort if you have tried to reason, talked to human resources and made every effort to rectify the situation you can go out and find another job. It the company is losing qualified workers due to this person's behavior they may start to take action. Let your company know why you are leaving.

5.) Contact an Attorney: Sometimes the person's actions constitute a per see violation of the law. If you have a case you will be sure that your company will investigate properly and take appropriate action. Nothing like a lawsuit gets a fire lit under their kester. However, you must also be aware that it will damage your trustworthiness within the company.