One quarter of the UK’s tech workforce has experienced unacceptable behaviour in the workplace, according to recent research.
Unacceptable Behaviour in the Workplace
According to recent research from Culture Shift, one-quarter (24%) of the UK’s tech workforce has experienced unacceptable behaviour in the workplace. An additional 39% reported feeling anxious about a negative relationship with a coworker when they return to the office. More worryingly, 15% have witnessed unacceptable behaviour in the workplace. Additionally, 11% say that they have experienced serious bullying and harassment in the workplace. A further 10% know somebody else that has suffered something serious.
Not Taken Seriously
The same report highlighted that 88% of UK tech sector employees say that knowing their employer takes bullying and harassment complaints seriously is important for their overall happiness at work. Yet, in spite of this 43% feel more likely to experience something they would describe as bullying or harassment while in the workplace. Despite the chances of harassment being high only 19% would report an incident to their line manager but they fear repercussions. And 11% said that they would report an incident but only if there was the opportunity to do it anonymously.
Safety of Working from Home
As companies explore the possibility of long-term remote working, many employees are finding this a safer, more comfortable option. 31% of employees in tech are more likely to report an incident now that they are working from home. Additionally, only 30% of workers feel likely to face unacceptable behaviour when working from home (compared to 43% in the workplace).
Anti-Bullying Week
The findings of this report come just in time for this year’s Anti-Bullying week, which falls between the 16th-20th November. The week is designed to encourage UK-based companies to take a preventative approach to tackling unacceptable behaviour. Some potential solutions proposed during the study were platforms for employees to speak out against bullying or harassment. A quarter of those surveyed said that their employer could take action to improve its culture and be more inclusive. 26% also suggested that a way to do this was by providing a platform for anonymous feedback.
Next Steps
Gemma McCall, CEO of Culture Shift, commented on the findings. “It’s clear that bullying and harassment is prevalent in many workplaces and employers need to do more to tackle the problem. This kind of insight must be acted on by employers if they want to attract and retain talent. Taking a proactive and preventative approach to tackle [these] behaviours, will help protect company culture and employee wellbeing”.
