Last Friday was the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence. I have been following this day and watching the momentum grow for a few years and this year 4575 schools took part to say Bullying. No Way! What a positive outcome.

Sadly, workplace bullying doesn't seem to build the same awareness. While reading through comments on social media about the Bullying. No Way! campaign, I came across too many comments about workplaces getting it wrong. The damage done from bullying; schoolyard, workplace, sporting, clubs or on-line, can be insidious, long-lasting and debilitating.

As adults we can get caught up in the definition of bullying. We can forget that small inappropriate behaviours (like some jokes) can be harmful.

Then when a target tries to communicate their concerns we jump straight into defence mode. Rather than listen and learn we get caught up in labels; most of us won't accept that our 'innocent' actions might contribute to a culture of bullying; racism, ageism, sexism etc. 

Perhaps as adults we should take a leaf from the school kids and the Bullying. No Way! campaign.

We should strive for workplace values of respect and inclusion and try open, honest communication — let's start listening with compassion and without judgement.

Respect at Work delivers Bullying awareness and management training, contact us to chat about your situation.