Research shows that workplace bullying costs the Australian economy between $6 billion and $36 billion every year and on  average, each claim costs employers between $17,000 to $24,000, depending on the case.

But it’s not only about the money.

The impact of workplace bullying and harassment on other people can be devastating and as fear and uncertainty become the norm, morale plummets and productivity becomes history.

As a female in a leadership role, it is critical that as soon as you get a ‘whiff’ of any behaviour that resembles workplace bullying or harassment, you jump onto it. Far too often leaders leave the problem alone, hoping that the issue will resolve itself in time. It never does.

So, if you are at the top of an Organisation or running a team, follow these 5 clear-cut strategies to deal with workplace bullying and harassment.

1. Be Aware – look for warning signs such as high absenteeism, complaints and develop processes to allow your staff to report incidents without fear of payback.

2. Train – Your people about the nature of workplace bullying and harassment, educate them and create a policy around it.

3. Culture in your Organisation – Create and implement a NO Bullying policy and use this topic as an agenda item at each team meeting. Make sure your senior leader’s role model this.

4. Respond – To complaints quickly, deal with bullies, monitor behaviour and communicate the results to staff efficiently.

5. Investigate – all complaints, gather all the facts, speak to witnesses, promise confidentiality and deal with the situation promptly.

Workplace bullying and harassment affect your people, your productivity, your profits. It also impacts on lives and people so do something about it today.

Source: Duty of Care Pty Ltd (Adapted)

Caryn Walsh is a psychologist, international business consultant, keynote speaker, executive coach and works on 3 continents around the world developing leaders, people and organisations at all levels.

She is well known for her ability to powerfully move audiences in her motivational speaking and coaches CEO’s, senior leaders and women internationally.

She is at the helm of Pure Magic International Business Solutions (www.puremagicbusiness.com.au) and also runs Empowering Women, Empowering Lives – a series of programs, retreats and seminars dedicated to helping women thrive.  (see www.carynwalsh.com.au)