Approaches to Address Workplace Bullying

During the first session of this series, attendees learned and discussed the many terms and phrases that apply to workplace bullying. It is important to start with a solid understanding about what workplace bullying is and what it isn't. Now that you know what workplace bullying is, we will teach you some options to address it.

One place to start is to look at our flow chart. The flow chart is intended to guide general approaches and considerations in determining an appropriate approach. It is not intended to reflect any individual institution’s specific policies or practices, nor to identify which offices or authorities deal with various stages in a particular institution. Rather, for informative purposes, the kinds of questions and issues to be considered throughout a process are outlined for clarity.

During this webinar session, we will make sure the resources and processes offered take various situations into account (e.g., Where do grad students go if your supervisor/advisor is bullying you?). For a variety of attendees, we will provide one or two relevant examples aimed at your experience that might be helpful.

Branch and Murray (2015) provide a framework that encompasses both formal and informal approaches to address workplace bullying. Some of the approaches are institutional, like establishing policies and procedures, while others help bystanders. We will cover the most useful approaches for individuals who have been targets or witnesses bullying at MSU.