Mobbing, when work gets sick
Who has never happened: stress in the workplace, constant criticism and colleagues who do not respect the agreements made? However, if the offenses, the scornful comments, and the humiliations continue over time, it is possible that this is a case of mobbing. What is mobbing and how can you defend yourself?
According to a study by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), unfavorable working conditions not only compromise the economic success of a company but have a negative impact on the well-being and motivation of employees as well as on the company climate. Among the conditions considered unfavorable is also bullying at the workplace. The harassment and conscious discrimination of a long-term employee fall into this category. Often mobbing emerges above all in stressful situations, during peak periods, during mergers or corporate restructuring.
Characteristics of mobbing
The typical acts of mobbing are, among other things, constant criticism, the assignment of senseless tasks, social isolation, the spread of gossip and, in extreme cases, threats of violence and aggression. The victim of mobbing often feels depressed, desperate and insecure. In addition, he suffers from mental disorders (e.g. nightmares, headaches, and stress) and physical (eg neck and shoulder pain, allergies, gastrointestinal problems). Take the self-assessment test (here) to find out if you are a victim of bullying at work.
Tips to defeat mobbing-
• Oppose yourself to the mobilizer. Try to stifle possible conflicts in the bud and stay calm.
• Keep a diary to document the harassment suffered. You will need it later to remember concrete situations and examples.
• Look for the dialogue with the mobilizer. Avoid accusations and reproaches and speak in the first person (eg "it irritates me ... / finding me ...".
• Stay goals. Avoid emotional responses during the interview and describe your feelings in a precise but neutral way.
• Contact your supervisor. If the acts of mobbing persist, talk to your supervisor and explain the situation to him.
• Look for professional help. Many consulting centers are specialized on the subject of mobbing.