Workplace bullying is at epidemic proportions with destructive tactics like ridicule, verbal abuse, and being the butt of jokes.  Unfortunately, women are more likely to become targets of workplace bullying than men.

According to studies, 62% of workplace bullies are male, while women comprise 58% of targets.  Too often, targets suffer in silence because the culture ignores bad behavior or at the very least tolerates it.

There are many reasons why an individual turns to bullying behavior.  They may try to boost their self-esteem by putting others down, or gain personal power by trying to control others.  Whatever the reasons, the first step to eliminate bullying is to identify the problem in the workplace culture.  

Many organizations are now initiating formal processes to identify and deal with bullying.  Ask human resources for the policies in your workplace. 

For more information on bullying in the workplace, check out Barb's new book,  Energy Suckers-How to Deal With Bullies in the Workplace.