How To Stand Up To A Work Bully

48.6 million people of Americans are bullied at work.

Whether it’s bosses or colleagues, workplace bullies can make work hell, causing damage that can be both professionally and personally devastating. 30% of American workers face workplace bullying leading to an increase in stress-related illnesses, anxiety, depression, and yes, PTSD. Acknowledge these feelings because they fuel your motivation to seek change because you deserve to be heard and respected.

One of the most common ways bullies exert their power is by interrupting and talking over you to dominate the conversation, causing you to feel deeply disrespected and can make you feel invisible.

So how do you handle it when someone dismisses your work and constantly interrupts you during meetings? Here's an expanded approach for confronting this issue while maintaining dignity and professionalism.

Lead by Example

One of the most powerful ways to combat a bully is to lead by example. Actively listen to others and show respect in all conversations. By embodying the change you wish to see, you become a catalyst for positive transformation in the workplace and show the team you respect them.

Understand The Damage Done

Recognize the emotional toll a workplace bully can have on you and your colleagues. Reflect on how their behavior affects you and why it’s important to confront it. Standing up for yourself will restore your empowerment and contribute to a healthier workplace culture.

Stay Calm and Composed

When confronted with an interruption, maintaining composure is crucial. Before responding to the bully, remain calm to project strength, and don’t let the bully dictate your emotions. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that your voice matters and your contribution is needed.

Assertive Communication

Practice this before your next meeting. When interrupted, firmly but politely state, “I’d like to finish my point,” or “Please let me complete my thought.” Your tone should convey confidence and calmness, signaling to the bully and others that you deserve the space to speak.

Set Boundaries

First, have a private conversation with the bully. Be direct, “I feel undermined when I’m interrupted during meetings. I value your input, but I’d appreciate it if we could respect each other’s time to speak.” This approach focuses on your feelings rather than accusations.

Bring In A Neutral Third Party

If direct communication does not bring about change, discuss the issue with a supervisor or HR representative, framing it as a concern about fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, as this will underscore your commitment to the well-being of the team.

Seek Support from Colleagues

There is strength in numbers, and often, others are affected by the same behavior. Encourage your colleagues to stand together and promote respectful communication norms. By supporting one another, you create a united front that reinforces the importance of mutual respect.

Document Incidents

Keep a detailed record of incidents where the bully interrupts or talks over you. Note the date, time, context, and any witnesses present. This documentation can be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue. It also serves to reinforce your resolve and sense of agency.

Focus on Solutions

During meetings, redirect conversations — for example, you might say, “Let’s get back to the agenda,” or “I’d like to hear everyone’s input on this topic.” This tactic not only addresses the interruption but also shifts the focus to collaboration and productivity and shows leadership.

Consider Professional Mediation

If the situation remains unresolved, professional mediation might be necessary. A mediator can facilitate a constructive dialogue and help shift perspective, and can be a powerful tool in transforming conflict into an opportunity for growth and understanding.

Reflect on Your Goals

Consider what outcome you want from standing up to the bully. Is it simply to stop the interruptions, or do you seek a broader cultural change within the workplace? Clarifying your goals can guide your approach and ensure that your actions align with your professional values.

Take Back Your Power

Standing up to a workplace bully is not just about addressing their behavior; it’s about reclaiming your power and voice. This journey is not just about changing one person’s behavior; it’s about contributing to a more respectful and inclusive work environment for everyone.

Visualize Success

Finally, visualize the positive impact of your actions. Picture a workplace where everyone’s voice is heard and respected, where collaboration thrives, and where you feel valued and empowered. This vision can be a powerful motivator as you navigate these challenges.

The Role of the Organization In Addressing Bullying

Companies need a zero-tolerance policy, because this kind of hostile environment leads to losses in productivity and time, more absenteeism, and limits your talent pool — hurting revenue and damaging your brand.

By standing up to workplace bullies and fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, you can create a healthier, more productive environment for yourself and your colleagues. Everyone deserves to work in a place where their contributions are valued and their voices are heard.