I absolutely 100% agree with those who are saying keep notes and diaries of what is happening. Even if it is slight or seems irrelevant. DO NOT delete any emails from her or anyone. What you need to look out for are inconsistencies with this woman. Bullying is identified by a sequence of events, that in themselves may be slight and easily explained. But it is the pattern of incidents that is not easy to explain.
If you think emails have been sent out degrading your work I would send an email to my boss asking for feedback on your job performance. And knowing me, I would send one to her aswell. Just a polite one asking for her opinion on the work I provide for her team.
I don't think there was anything wrong with your comment in the meeting.
The important thing is to get some hard evidence for any bullying or harrassment and that is where emails can be your friend. If you have any verbal meetings with anyone about this, always send them an email afterwards detailing what was discussed and asking them to confirm their position on the matter. Always make sure there is a written record of this as it proceeds.
You will have to be vigilant. But do not get paranoid. Try to tell yourself that there could be other reasons for the behaviour of others, while at the same time keeping notes and tabs on whats going on. That might help you keep a clear head.
I have been through this before and I know that it gets nasty when you accuse someone at work of bullying. HR will side against you because they do not want to admit any liability. That is why it is vital to have evidence of the bullying. So try to make sure you have witnesses or written emails etc.
01 Jun 2010, 6:23 am
