What to do about a bullying colleague
A history teacher who has just started class experiences the necessary bullying and harassment behavior of a fellow student. He finds it difficult to deal with this and switches the AOb in for advice.
Picture: Type tank
It is recommended to first discuss this unpleasant situation one-on-one with your colleague. Prepare the conversation well and state the annoying behavior as concretely as possible. Avoid a yes / no discussion by emphasizing how the behavior comes across and what it does to you. This conversation gives the colleague the opportunity to adjust his behavior without the intervention of third parties. This can prevent unnecessary escalation.
Safe working environment
If this does not help, it is possible to engage the employer. Under the Working Conditions Act, the employer is responsible for a safe working environment. He must map the risks and include measures against psychosocial workload - which include bullying, aggression and (sexual) intimidation - in the action plan and any additional protocols. It is advisable to request these documents from the employer. You then know which steps can be taken and how the roles and tasks are divided.
Under the Working Conditions Act, the employer is responsible for a safe working environment
In a more discreet environment it is possible to tell the story to the confidential advisor. A listening ear is generally very pleasant and often already a significant part of the solution. It is also possible to speak to one of our union consultants and, if necessary, to engage our lawyers. The latter is effective, for example, if you suffer damage as a result of the bullying or you have to report sick.
