What is Exclusion?
When we think about exclusion in relation to bullying, we often think of the isolation and humiliation that occurs in the school playground when a bully picks on an individual. However, this type of bullying often occurs in a work setting too. Workplace bullies often use the tactic of exclusion, which is a form of social ostracism, to target someone.
Exclusion involves a person being left out of general conversation. They may be overlooked for training sessions or are not kept up to date on work matters. If someone is deliberately trying to exclude someone, they may talk loudly when inviting colleagues for after-work drinks, and deliberately exclude the target, who doesn’t get an invite.
A workplace bully using exclusion may also spread gossip about their target in an attempt to get others to join in with the exclusion.
How Does Exclusion Affect People?
Exclusion can affect a person’s mental well-being and can lead to feelings of sadness and low self-esteem. It is demoralising and can also cause the target to experience poor job satisfaction and low morale. They may feel the only option is to quit their job to escape the bullying.
How to Deal with Exclusion
There are employment laws and regulations that prohibit any sort of discrimination and employers are required to ensure their workplace is a safe and secure environment. To do this, they need to monitor how employees interact by observing office dynamics and integration. If they notice any signs that one employee is being excluded, they must nip it in the bud.
One way to tackle bullying by exclusion is to ensure all staff are familiar with the company’s anti-bullying policy. It is also a good idea to provide regular diversity and inclusion training to promote respect and understanding. This will also foster teamwork and collaboration.
Employers must also ensure there is clear communication across the company. They must let staff know what behaviours are expected of everyone and what types of behaviour are not acceptable. Remind everyone that bullying is a serious matter that can result in termination of employment.
Employees must feel confident and comfortable when reporting incidences of bullying. If employers put the correct measures in place, they can ensure their workplace is one of mutual respect.
Bullying Resources
Bullying in the Workplace
This pack provides guidance for companies on tackling workplace bullying, supporting the targets of bullying and ensuring the wellbeing of staff.
- Focus: Anti-bullying policies for businesses
- Category: Businesses
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 50
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £8.99 
Hard copy: £25.99 add to basket
Bullying — A Complete Approach
Contains hints and tips for teachers, parents and young people to enable them to identify and tackle bullying.
- Age range: 12 years and upwards
- Category: Schools
- Last revised: 2022
- Pages: 94
- Illustrated throughout
Ebook: £10.99
Hard copy: £35.99 add to basket