Workplace bullying is alive and well – and on the rise. Recent statistics indicate that up to 35% of workforce employees have fallen victim to this alarming trend. Particularly disturbing is that bullying often continues even after an employee has left a job, with the bully continuing to make the job seeker’s life difficult by giving them a poor reference when called by prospective employers.
What constitutes workplace bullying? Tactics can range from derogatory comments to public humiliation or physical abuse, all of which can lead to decreased workplace productivity. Victims may experience a loss of confidence, debilitating anxiety, panic attacks, clinical depression or even physical illness.
Central to the issue is the fact that management or supervisors are the most common offenders, and their bullying actions leave the recipient in a difficult employment position. Since many bullies are operating in accordance with a company’s “standard practices”, victims often speculate that they may deserve the criticisms, or they are simply too embarrassed, reluctant or fearful to confront the harasser.
If you are the victim and you’re unwilling or unable to effect a change in the workplace, leaving the position and looking for a more positive environment may be your best choice. However, you will want to make sure that your former employer’s negative feedback to potential new employers does not hinder your efforts to find a more suitable work environment.
Fortunately, there is recourse available for such grim scenarios. Allison & Taylor reference checking provides a service whereby an employee can find out exactly what someone is saying about them to a prospective new employer. If a workplace bully is speaking out of turn when responding to an employment inquiry, employees can exercise the option of a Cease & Desist letter or pursue more substantive legal action.
The organization has recently begun offering additional consultative services on this subject. Click on the “Workplace Bullying” section of this site and request a complimentary consultation: https://www.allisontaylor.com/blog/bully-cease-desist-letter/
For many, the dilemma of workplace bullying is often made worse by the feeling that nothing can be done to address it. However, this isn’t true – every employee or job seeker has an obligation to enhance or protect their employment situation.
For further details on services and procedures please visit www.AllisonTaylor.com.
Are you protected by your old company’s policy to only confirm the dates and title of employment?
Our experience is, that with a little pressure, most managers break company policy and speak their mind to either help or hurt a candidate’s chance at another job. Who from your past job will help you or hurt you – you need to know.
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Is your past boss badmouthing you?
50% of our clients have lost good job offers due to bad or mediocre comments from previous employers. Reference-Letters.com will confidentially find out what is really being said about you and give you the power to stop it!
Interviewing well but not getting the job?
Maybe it’s something that a past employer or reference is saying. Could a jealous colleague be sabotaging you? Could your past boss be less than happy at your departure? Reference-Letters.com will help you find out.
Do you have a separation agreement with your past employer? Is it being honored?
Is your past employer giving you the professional and prompt reference that was promised or are they saying, “Well according to our agreement I can only confirm that he worked here.” Reference-Letters.com will find out what is really being said and give you the power to enforce your agreement.
Were you a victim of discrimination, sexual harassment or wrongful termination?
Your previous employers could be affecting your new job search through their comments to prospective employers. Don’t let them continue to hurt you and your career.
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Are you being BLACKBALLED?
Last year our clients were awarded more than $2 million in settlements. Reference-Letters.com will find out what is really being said about you and give you the power to stop it!
You’ve put time and effort into your resume, developed your network of possible employers and recruiters, worked on your interview skills – but have done nothing but typed a list of your references. Don’t leave this crucial area to chance. References are the final factor in who gets the job offer. Your past employers – anyone you reported to will be contacted. Do you know what they will say? Reference-Letters.com will find out what is really being said about you.