Blog
Workplace investigations – Top Tips
Opt have been very busy recently carrying out workplace investigations on a range of issues, including allegations of bullying and harassment, inappropriate behaviour and misconduct. Our work has also included 'tidying up' poorly handled investigations. The impact on...
read moreWorkplace procedures – bullying and harassment
A recent article in WalesOnline stated Bridgend Council reported they have "robust, clear policies in place to ensure that all employees understand what is expected of them and can behave appropriately", yet they've had 22 complaints of bullying since January 2009. A...
read morePrevent allegations of bullying at work
The pressure is on in today's workplace, and the working environment can be intense and stressful - worries over job security; budget cuts; redundancies; increased workloads; competing with colleagues for the same job in a shrinking workforce and watching colleagues...
read moreDealing with a difficult colleague
During my work with organisations to repair the damage caused by unhealthy conflict at work, including formal grievances and allegations of "bullying", I was struck by how many of these situations could easily have been avoided if the matter had been dealt with...
read moreWorkplace investigations
Workplace investigations can be time consuming and distracting from normal business. Employers can find the process daunting or may believe an investigation is unnecessary in the particular circumstances. However, if an investigation is not carried out or handled...
read moreCity councillor guilty of racial harassment
A councillor in Bristol has been found guilty of racial harassment and given a 12 month conditional discharge. Click here to read more on www.bbc.co.uk In this case the individuals were elected public servants, not employees, and the case was pursued through legal...
read moreWorkplace behaviour that fits
Cultivating a healthy workplace doesn't mean a loss of corporate or team identity. Characteristics unique to the way of working, such as stress at times of high pressure are inevitable. Recognising this and creating a place for open discussion can prevent a pattern of...
read moreWorkplace mediation
Many workplace issues, if dealt with early, can be resolved. However, there are times when third party intervention can be the only answer. The following is a real life scenario where workplace mediation helped to prevent a situation escalating to the point of a...
read more“I’m not a manager to be popular”
A newly appointed manager recently asked me for some advice on how she should approach her new role. Promoted to the managerial position from her peer group, she was all too aware of the challenge ahead. We decided to explore some real life comments: “I’m not a...
read moreUsing the phrase “bullying” at work
Welcome to Opt's first blog post. In the course of my work I interview all types of employee about their experiences of workplace behaviour. The disruption caused by the misuse of the term “bully” is an ongoing theme. Misuse of the term “bully” can have a devastating...
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