How to Stop Cyberbullying in the Workplace

Electronic communications are often sent impulsively. Even public figures may post, text, or tweet with almost no reflection. Unfortunately, an ill-considered outburst online is almost impossible to take back.

The promise of widespread impact can also be hard for bullies to resist. A single mean tweet or Instagram post can go viral in a matter of minutes or hours, and may result in many people, even complete strangers, ganging up on the same hapless target.

Concerns for Employers

Nurses who are bullied may suffer increased stress, low productivity, anxiety, health problems, and absenteeism. Cyberbullying also undermines team unity, especially if it takes place over a platform everyone uses.

In California, employers can be held legally liable for cyberbullying that is directed at their employees. Harassment is harassment, and online cruelty often leaves a digital record that can’t be erased.

Worse, cyberbullying is often publicly visible. It can be hard enough for organizations to attract and retain quality employees without evidence of a toxic work environment being splashed all over social media!

What employers can do to prevent cyberbullying:

• Promote a work culture where bullying isn’t tolerated, in person or electronically.
• Establish clear written policies and consistently enforce them; remind staff that violations may result in disciplinary action.
• Provide training for staff and leadership in how to recognize and deal with all forms of workplace bullying, including cyberbullying.
• Promptly investigate and address any complaints involving employees or contractors.

If You’re a Target

If you’re a victim of cyberbullying, you might second-guess your own reactions, especially if people around you dismiss the harassment because it’s “only” online. However, cyberbullying is every bit as serious as any other form of bullying and can be even more insidious.

Here are steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Don’t respond or engage. Trying to argue or defend yourself may just make things worse.
• Take screenshots of the malicious posts or messages as evidence. Note the date and time.
• Block the bullies if possible.
• Report the harassment to the social media or messaging platform administrators.
• Document everything! Tell your manager or HR representative what is happening.

Social media platforms and digital communications are valuable tools that can strengthen teamwork and connect nurses with each other. Let’s all agree to use them for those positive purposes!

RENEE THOMPSON, RN, DNP, FAAN, CSP, is the CEO and founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute (healthyworkforceinstitute.com).

In this Article: Bullying and Incivility