Managers feel pressurised to produce results, meet targets and deliver quality services.  Motivating staff, responsible management and developing a healthy workplace can easily fall off the action plan. However, investing time to create a working environment where concerns can be raised as early as possible is vital to a healthy working environment, crucial in today’s economic climate and totally achievable in any organisation.

How to minimise allegations of bullying in your workplace

• create a common understanding of the behaviour that is acceptable in your workplace
• create an environment were issues can be raised as early as possible
• train workers on how to raise issues, receive and give constructive feedback and work together to solve problems
• managers are able to spot unnecessary conflict in their teams and have the skills to deal with interpersonal issues early and effectively

Live Q & A: Dealing with a difficult colleague
Not getting on with your co-workers? Our panel will be coming online to talk about everything from confronting your boss and improving relationships with colleagues to the ins and outs of your legal rights

In this case the individuals were elected public servants, not employees, and the case was pursued through legal channels. It is interesting to consider possible approaches to dealing with this case had the individuals been employees.

Would mediation or counselling have been appropriate?

• Create a common understanding of the behaviour that is acceptable in your workplace

• Raise managers’ skills and confidence to manage interpersonal conflict quickly and effectively

• Promote respect for personal and professional boundaries

• Practice open communication

Recognising and resolving inappropriate workplace behaviour launched 8 June 2010 click here to read more in HR Magazine.