Bullying in the workplace is epidemic these days.

Question

HR folks cannot be trusted to curb it, let alone stop it, because more often than not, they're buddy pals with the bully. I worked for a high-end retailer from 2010-2020 and dealt with bullying, abusive management almost the entire time; I always jumped in to help a colleague in need, I was always on time, I was never late, I learned the operations of the three stores I worked in during this time and, somehow, I was viewed as a threat.  In February of 2020 I was laid off; I got two month's severance and cashed out my 401K.  This company I jokingly refer to as 'The Hen House', and I will never go back to work for them.

Maggie Teliska · Answer

I hate that it is 2021 and women still have a long ways to go when it comes to bullying in the workplace.  I'm unable to see the 'more' after your post but will check back to hear more.  Hang in there.

Jodie Johnson · Answer

I'm so sorry that happened to you and really hope you find another career opportunity where this is not the culture; even if you start your own company! Best of luck to you!

Keisha Jones · Answer

Hi Jenifer,

I have been in work situations where HR  is supposed to be neutral...but they were not.  The fact that you could not go to HR is a huge red flag.  I'm glad you were able to get some type of severance pay and realize that this is a not a good company to work for.  The fact company was known as 'The Hen House' to me is saying that a lot of employees at this company were Hens, chickens, or cats fighting amongst themselves with feathers and fur flying everywhere equaling to discord in that workplace. This is my own opinion...

April Chu · Answer

I always say that while getting let go seems like the end of the world, it is a blessing in disguise that you will soon come to see (once you get through your periods of grief). In your case, it sounds true given the toxic environment. My  HR friends have said that as much as HR wants to help you, they are ultimately working for the company and its best interest. Take your experience as a learning (especially on the environment you do not want to be a part of) and move on to find a healthy, collaborative, positive culture and holds accountability of how they treat ALL employees. Culture says a lot about a company.

Shire Lyon · Answer

I was most recently in a situation where HR could not be trusted.  The COO and HR both knew it was going on, but sided with the aggressor. In fact, they even forced the employee to work under the aggressor. That was just one of the many incidents allowed to go on. In my experience, HR is there to protect the company, not you.

Brianna King · Answer

This is so true and so upsetting! HR is often not to be trusted which just adds to the toxicity. It's so frustrating and honestly part of why I have decided to start my own business. I left one toxic place and found 2 more before I decided I was leaving the hospitality industry, however it seems to have permeated every industry. It's always something on my mind while I'm looking for an opportunity that will allow me to build my business sustainably.

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