Every workplace has its fair share of characters, but you may encounter some who treat office politics as if it’s an art form. Office bullies are those people who make your 9 to 5 feel more like survival of the fittest. They suck the fun out of work and can leave you questioning your sanity. The good news? You can fight back without losing your cool and come out of the whole ordeal as unbothered as you can be.
Let’s dive into the types of office bullies and how to stop them in their tracks.
1. The Credit Thief: “Who, Me?”
We all know a coworker who likes stealing ideas. You present a brilliant idea in a meeting and they swoop in like a crow to claim it. Suddenly, they’re being praised. But don’t worry, no bad deed goes unpunished.
Like the TikTok girlies say; keep receipts! Document your ideas in emails, messages, or project management tools. During meetings, assertively say, “As I mentioned earlier…” to reclaim your idea. If they persist, loop in your manager and share evidence. Thieves hate the spotlight when it’s not flattering.
2. The Micromanager: Control Freak Extraordinaire
This bully is like having a mean older cousin who disguises their power play as “guidance,” but as a colleague. This makes it worse. They breathe down your neck, rewrite your work and insist that nothing’s good enough. All the corrections and backhanded comments make you feel like maybe you’re bad at your job.
But you’re not. It’s just them and their controlling tendencies. Set boundaries early. Say something like, “I appreciate your input, but I’d like to take ownership of this task.” If they’re relentless, use the wild card; Involve HR. Even control freaks answer to someone and it’s oh-so satisfying to see them fluster.
3. The Gossip Guru: The Human Megaphone
There’s a Gossip Guru in every workplace and you either love them or hate them. They know everyone’s business and aren’t shy about sharing it. But it’s not so fun if you suddenly find yourself becoming the topic of the day.
The tricky part is shutting them down. When they try to loop you in, respond with neutral statements like, “I prefer to focus on work.” If they gossip about you, address it directly. Calmly say, “I’ve heard some rumours. Can we discuss this?” One thing that gossipers don’t like, is being confronted with their own words.
Read more: How to Forge Friendships in a New Workplace
4. The Passive-Aggressor: The Sneaky Sniper
They’ll never confront you outright. Instead, they weaponise sarcasm, backhanded compliments and icy silences. You’re left wondering, “Was that an insult or am I overthinking?” Spoiler: It’s not you.
I know kindness is a virtue, but I believe in giving what you get. Call them out; politely but firmly. Forcing them to clarify often disarms their subtle attacks. If they deny deny deny, you’ve to still show you won’t tolerate their behaviour.
5. The Bulldozer: Intimidation on Full Blast
This bully is loud, aggressive and unapologetic. They dominate meetings, dismiss opposing views and disregard anyone who dares to challenge them. More often than not, they’re talked shit about behind their back. And for good reason too!
If they intimidate you, intimidate them back! Speak confidently and maintain eye contact. Use phrases like, “Let’s make sure everyone’s voice is heard.” Strength, not aggression, is your best defence. And remember, keep receipts.
General Tips for Handling Bullies
Don’t personalise it: Their behaviour reflects their insecurities and personalities, not yours.
Build allies: A supportive team is a bully’s worst nightmare.
Know your rights: Familiarise yourself with workplace policies and don’t hesitate to involve HR when necessary.
Office bullies can make work life miserable, but they’re not invincible. By staying assertive, documenting incidents and rallying support, you can shut them down without stooping to their level.
Remember: the workplace is tough, but you’re tougher. It’s time to take back your power and show those bullies who’s boss.
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