Best Practices for Addressing Workplace Bullying

A VP with a 15-year track record of excellence and zero performance issues broke down in my office. "They've made my life hell for months. Is this even illegal?" The answer broke her heart - and reveals why 80% of workplace bullying goes unchallenged: Most workplace bullying is perfectly legal. Let me explain the brutal reality: The law doesn't protect you from people who simply don't like you. It only protects you from mistreatment based on legally protected characteristics. Here's what IS protected by law: • Harassment based on gender, race, religion, age, disability • Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting legal violations • Discrimination due to pregnancy or medical conditions • Harassment tied to a protected class that creates a hostile environment Here's what is NOT legally protected: • A boss who micromanages everyone equally • Coworkers who exclude you from lunch • A manager with an aggressive communication style • Someone who simply doesn't like you • General unfairness or bad leadership This distinction devastates most clients who come to me. "So I just have to endure this?" she asked. Not necessarily. While the law may not help, you still have options: 1. Document everything with dates, times, witnesses 2. Identify if the behavior connects to a protected characteristic 3. Confirm unclear or conflicting feedback in writing(This protects you and builds your record) 4. Follow your company's formal complaint procedures 5. If the behavior violates internal policy (even if not illegal), it may support a severance negotiation 6. Build alliances with supportive colleagues 7. Protect your mental health first - no job is worth your wellbeing The most powerful protection is knowing exactly where the legal line is drawn - before you need that knowledge. Follow for more insights on navigating workplace rights from a former corporate insider. #EmploymentAttorney  #CaliforniaEmploymentLaw  #EmployeeRights Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional legal advice. It does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

I Was Told I ‘Would never Amount to Anything’ at Work—Here's What I Did Next Imagine this: you're giving your all at work, but someone with authority decides to break your spirit instead of building you up. It’s a tough pill to swallow, and it can happen in any workplace. In my case I took the person saying that no one would read a book I wrote and I have written 2 best selling books. When that person said I wouldn’t amount to anything, I grew in the company to be in a position higher than they were. And when they said the new style of leadership would never work, I used it to change the aerospace industry. No one’s words define you. Only what you do defines you. But here's the truth—bullies aren’t just teenagers in school. They wear suits, have fancy titles, and think they have the right to tear down others to feel powerful. If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of workplace bullying, know you’re not alone. 💢 Research shows that 75% of employees experience or witness workplace bullying at some point in their careers. It’s a widespread issue, but there are ways to rise above it and come out stronger. Here's How to Take Back Your Power: 👉 Document Everything Keep a detailed record of every instance of bullying. This isn’t just for evidence; it’s a way to show yourself that what’s happening is real and unacceptable. 👉 Set Boundaries Firmly It’s okay to say “no” and push back when someone disrespects you. Assert your boundaries respectfully but firmly—this isn’t about retaliation; it’s about self-respect. 👉 Find Allies Connect with colleagues who have your back. Having a support system at work can help you feel more empowered and less isolated. 👉 Seek Professional Guidance Sometimes, it’s necessary to escalate the issue to HR or seek legal advice. Having professional support ensures that you’re not navigating this challenge alone. 💬 If you’ve faced workplace bullying, remember it’s not a reflection of your abilities or worth. It’s a sign of someone else’s insecurity. Keep building your skills and confidence—don’t let anyone steal your potential. #WorkplaceWellness #Leadership #WorkCulture #ProfessionalGrowth #AIandAutomation

The hardest part of being bullied at work? Finding the words to protect yourself — without creating conflict. I’ve been there. And I’ve seen it happen to people around me: smart, kind, talented professionals shut down by rudeness, gossip, or subtle power plays. Here are 15 powerful phrases to stand up to workplace bullying (while staying professional): 1. “Let’s keep this discussion professional and solution-focused.” 2. “I’d like to finish my thought without interruption.” 3. “That comment felt inappropriate. Let’s stay respectful.” 4. “I prefer not to engage in gossip or backroom talk.” 5. “Can we take a break and revisit this later, calmly?” 6. “This feedback doesn’t feel constructive—could you clarify?” 7. “Let’s bring in a manager or HR to help mediate this.” 8. “I’m open to feedback—not personal criticism.” 9. “To me, this feels more like blame than collaboration.” 10. “Let’s not confuse sarcasm with professional communication.” 11. “I don’t feel safe continuing this conversation alone.” 12. “Please don’t raise your voice when speaking to me.” 13. “I’m here to solve problems, not to be disrespected.” 14. “Let’s focus on the work—not personal attacks.” 15. “I need to go now. Let’s end this conversation here.” We don’t need these phrases to fight back with aggression — but to protect our voice with calm and confidence. Clear boundaries are not rude. They’re what healthy teams are built on. Let’s make the workplace safer — one sentence at a time. ♻️ Share this with your network if it resonates. ☝️ And follow Victoria Repa for more insights like this.