Hundreds of millions of workers worldwide dread going to work every day. But for those workers who have to work with a jerk or workplace bully, going to work is unbearable. All of these office jerks are Actively Disengaged employees whose behaviors contribute to their coworkers’ depression, anxiety, health problems, despair, and insomnia. The workplace negativity becomes even more palpable if the jerk is one’s manager or a member of Senior Management.
Furthermore, the jerk’s toxic behavior becomes contagious, infecting many others who may begin mistreating others as well. In addition, the watercooler gossip mongering is equally infectious, resulting in incorrect and obnoxious rumors spreading like wildfire.
Sadly, workplace jerks and bullies are not uncommon. Forty-eight percent of workers report either having been bullied themselves or having witnessed workplace bullying.1Let’s just say that it is not an accident that a relatively recent New York Times Best Seller was called “The No Asshole Rule.” See my related and very relevant blog on The 19 Traits Of A Horrible Boss.
So what does one do when faced with having to work with an office jerk? Here are 5 proven solutions:
1. Keep your distance. Taking on the workplace bully is a very risky business, as most of these jerks are highly manipulative, cunning, and crafty in the most negative possible sense. Staying away from the intolerable jerk is the most simple and effective solution.
2. Document and report the jerk’s behaviors and actions.
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