Cyber-bullying has infiltrated the workplace and is causing major problems. Cyber-bullying is where abuse takes place via electronic forms of communication, such as the internet, email or mobile phone text messaging. It differs from other forms of bullying in that it can usually only be detected if the victim or target chooses to report the abuse. The opportunity to engage in bullying and harassment has been largely driven by the increase in popularity of new technologies such as mobile phones (with in-built cameras, blackberries etc) and internet sites such as Facebook, MySpace and YouTube. A recent LinkMe survey noted that there was a substantial lack of support and action in the workplace in cases of cyber-bullying with almost 53% of employees stating they are left to struggle on their own when the target of cyber-bullying. Cyber-bullying presents challenges for both employers and employees.

Challenges in the Workplace

The most common form of cyber-bullying - email can leave a clear trail of evidence if an organisation needs to investigate a complaint. But this in itself can be problematic as employers face resistance over the monitoring of employee communication. A recent poll by LinkMe that found 77% of respondents believed their boss should not be allowed to read their emails. Even more worrying and challenging for employers and targets of cyber-bullying, is the anonymity afforded by most technologies especially in relation to postings on social networking sites. Some argue that this anonymity allows cyber-bullies to be even more aggressive than those who bully their victims face to face. Worse still for victims cyber-bullying is not confined to working hours as these technologies continue to infiltrate our private lives. It has been suggested that one way to reduce cyber-bullying might be for organisations to monitor employees' use of the internet more closely with some advocating access should be restricted in the workplace, again controversial.

Symptoms of Bullying

There are both emotional and psychological costs associated with bullying. These include poor concentration, depression, loss of productivity and creativity, shame, insecurity and feelings of being out of control as well as anxiety, headaches and sleep disruption.

How employers can minimise cyber-bullying

The most obvious preventative strategy is to promote a work-culture where cyber-bullying is not tolerated. From a practical perspective it is helpful if company policies and procedures clearly outline what constitutes cyber-bullying and the legal implications of misuse of technology such as circulating obscene emails, text messages, posting offensive materials and blogs etc. Educating and training employees to prevent bullying behaviour can also serve to reduce the incidence of cyber-bullying. Having in place procedures to assist both the target and perpetrator of cyber-bullying in the form of counselling and arbitration is also a key strategy. Training in areas such as assertiveness, conflict resolution, confidence, communication and interpersonal skills work well to equip employees with tools to deal with bullying.

What targets of cyber-bullying can do

It is generally recommended that if you are the target of cyber-bullying or other forms of bullying it is best not to try and resolve the situation by yourself. Though sometimes difficult for the target of bullying it is best to alert trusted colleagues, managers or supervisors of the situation and enlist their help. Other things you can do include

• Where possible keep a record including date and time as you may need the evidence when making a formal complaint
• Avoid responding to the offender - this may exacerbate the situation
• Try blocking the sender's messages
• Guard contact information