Upwards Bullying – How to Manage It

It is something that isn’t often talked about but it is an issue when you’re in a management position and you feel like your being bullied from above.

I hear about this a lot and normally it is the case that although people will confide in you they don’t want to do anything because in their mind – what can be done?

Here are some things to think about if you find ourself in that situation:

– Communication is key

There can be no substitute for face to face communication. So if you feel like someone is behaving inappropriately towards you if you haven’t already then the first step to dealing with this is to try to talk to them face to face. Give them the first opportunity to be told how they are making you feel?

– Know your organisations processes

Often it can feel like there is no where for you to go in these types of situations. However, you might want to look at your company’s Grievance procedures or bullying and harassment Polices. It might not always be suitable to use these policies but check them out to see first of all.

– Understand what you want

This might sound obvious but think about the outcome you want from the situation. Knowing this will inform the choices that you now make.

– Trust in someone

Sometimes all that you need is to talk, talk to someone who you trust, it could be a mentor, your own manager, someone from HR or indeed someone from your family. Talk things through, understand how you feel and gauge how you are reacting to the situation.

– Realise that it is not an acceptable situation

Most managers I have ever spoken to (read from that ALL) where never given a manual on ‘how to deal with their employees’ and therefore are learning as they go. Often they will get it wrong that is the human condition and often it will be the part of their management role they least like but need to do. However, when all is said and done upward bullying is just as unacceptable as downward bullying it’s just less known and talked about.

Therefore YOU need to be the difference and deal with the situation accordingly.