“It’s a staggering and concerning statistic and a sad indictment on New Zealand workplaces of all shapes and sizes,” says Jane Kennelly, Frog Recruitment managing director. “And it’s got to change.”
Kennelly suggests that victims of bullies should not be afraid to challenge their comments, which are often slanderous. She also says to be confident with body language as well as to keep track of all types of engagements where a person is bullying. “A healthy workplace is a productive workplace. It is vital for management or senior leaders to foster a team atmosphere and encourage people to work together and support each other,” Kennelly says. “Bullying will only stop when the leaders stop tolerating it. It needs to be stamped out immediately–don’t waste time–get on to it immediately.”