#1. Constant Criticism. Workplace bullies often resort to unfair and unwarranted criticism aimed at their victims. If you find yourself constantly receiving negative feedback for tasks you know you’ve excelled at, fulfilled all expectations, or even gone above and beyond, or if the criticism you receive is highly disproportionate, consider it a warning sign.
#2. The painful experience of exclusion and isolation. Covert narcissists, in particular, are masters at this manipulative technique. They may portray themselves as kind and wonderful, but behind the scenes, they intentionally exclude you from certain activities. Bullies often utilize isolation as a means of controlling their targets. If you find yourself consistently and purposefully left out of meetings, decisions, or team gatherings, be aware that this exclusion may not be accidental.
#3. Workplace Sabotage. Do you feel like your performance at work is constantly being hindered? Watch out for these alarming signs of workplace bullying: withholding crucial information, setting unreasonable deadlines, and burdening you with an overwhelming workload. Don’t let them bring you down – identify these sneaky actions aimed at creating stress, frustration, and tarnishing your professional reputation.
#4. Verbal or Physical abuse. While physical abuse is undeniably distressing to experience, there are other subtle forms of aggression happening too, like constant yelling, threatening or even acts of violence. Derogatory language is another common occurrence, as well as teasing, passive aggression, and sly remarks. Don’t be oblivious to these signs of workplace bullying.
#5. Spreading of rumors and gossip. Attempting to tarnish your reputation with a smear campaign by spreading blatantly false statements about you, such as insinuating incompetence, substance abuse, or other detrimental traits.
#6. Overwhelming workload. Unrealistic deadlines, and a bullying boss can all be signs of hidden workplace bullying. Don’t let stress take a toll on your mental and physical health.
#7. Not giving you credit for your work. This issue resonates strongly with covert narcissists, and even grandiose personalities. One telltale sign is when your hard work goes unnoticed or worse, stolen. Your accomplishments may be undermined, downplayed, or worse, claimed by the bully. This devious behavior aims to undermine your confidence and make you feel undervalued. It’s time to recognize and address this toxic behavior!
#8. Feeling stressed. Uncover the harsh reality of how workplace bullying can severely impact your emotional well-being, leading to detrimental symptoms. Take immediate action to address the underlying cause of these emotional responses. Brace yourself, because this is when the dread of going to work intensifies.
Being aware of these 8 shocking signs of hidden workplace bullying is vital for employers, employees, and supervisors alike. Research shows that victims of bullying often experience a range of physical and mental health issues due to the constant stress. Thankfully, by recognizing the subtle signs of hidden workplace bullying in yourself or others, you can take appropriate action to protect yourselves from its repercussions. If you think you might be a victim of hidden workplace bullying seek help immediately and never be ashamed or scared to ask your employer for assistance.
