by The workplace is like an extension of high school. I was never bullied at work, but I had seen people who got bullied at work. There is a hierarchy and people can be aggressive trying to protect their place. There is a way to prevent being a target. Here is what I did so I avoided getting bullied at work.
1. Look Confident and act confident. Confidence is your shield from being seen as an easy target. If you look too vulnerable people can see you as an instant errand person to do their jobs for them. Acting, Meek and shy will make you an instant target for your predatory coworkers. One way to be confident is to love and respect yourself. How you treat yourself will reflect on how others will treat you.
One thing you need to remember though is there is a difference between confidence and arrogance. Do not cross the arrogant territory either because it will step on people's feet.
2. Be unapologetic- If you care too much about your reputation, a simple rumor based on lies can easily be used to throw you under the bus.No unjustified criticism can phase you if you don't care what they think.
3. Try to make friends but with caution, the more the better. Most bullies at the workplace have friends. Be kind but make sure your kindness wont be a weakness. Yes, you have to make friends but do not make friends with toxic people who will treat you like a doormat. Those are not real friends but bullies in disguise. Once you surround yourself with good people, You instantly have the protection you needed because workplace bullies don't target someone with lots of friends.
4. Don't be late- A person who is always late instantly becomes a social pariah at the workplace. Not only it annoys your superiors, but you also alienate your, would-be peers.
5. If you have ambitions to climb the corporate later, Make sure to not tell anybody about it. A lot of people at work want promotion and if you announced that you are competitive, You are walking on thin ice.
6. Avoid polarizing topics- Politics and religion will make you a lot of enemies. Avoid debating people at work as much as possible.
7. Befriend your boss-This may sound like sucking up but the people you need to be closest to the most are your superiors. They are the protection you needed.
