Dealing with HR Bullying: Lessons from a Consultant's Struggle
Every profession comes with its share of challenges, but when these challenges escalate to the level of bullying, it can be particularly disheartening. In my 25 years of experience in professional consultancy, I have unfortunately found myself a target of such egregious behavior within my own corporate environment. This article delves into my experience, seeking to highlight the need for a stronger ethical framework within Human Resources departments.
Background: My Father's Lasting Lesson
My late godfather, a dedicated DOT inspector on Long Island during the 70s, faced the harsh realities of workplace mistakes, often highlighted in humorous but nonetheless impactful ways. His tragically named ‘Mount’ became synonymous with a massive pile of wasted asphalt meant for disposal. Fast forward to today, on my way to a routine doctor's appointment, I often make a detour past the asphalt mixing plants he used to monitor. This serves as a stark reminder of both the importance and the fragility of my professional environment.
From Innocence to Experiences
My journey began with the usual probationary period, but the HR representative messed up the paperwork. A meeting was lined up with the interim manager, who, after examining the company manual, ordered an expedited resolution. These initial hiccups, combined with later issues, exposed me to a series of unethical and unprofessional behaviors on the part of HR and my colleagues.
The First Incident: Paperwork Mishaps
My onboarding process was hampered when my HR representative failed to process paperwork timely. During a critical international trip during the pandemic, my insurance detail was overlooked by the HR representative. Despite having written confirmation of coverage, I discovered discrepancies in my tax forms post-trip. This incident set off a chain reaction, leading to a loud discussion with a colleague and a plea for a new HR representative. The acting HR representative retaliated, upping the ante with threats and accusations.
Escalation and Confrontation
The insurance issue persisted, and I could not claim coverage for necessary medication. This not only impacted my health but also violated HR protocols. The situation escalated further when I received yet another inaccessibility to my benefits, forcing me to document the mishaps meticulously. Through determination and documented evidence, I was eventually able to resolve the issue and hold those responsible accountable. Two HR representatives were terminated, and a full apology was issued to me.
The Broader Picture: Corporate Ethical Standards
The core lesson from this experience is the need for stringent ethical standards within corporate HR departments. Actionable measures such as internal investigations and disciplinary procedures should be in place to address such grievances. It is crucial to remember that HR, despite its role in enforcing rules, must also adhere to the same standards it upholds for others. In an environment with no 'Internal Affairs' group, ethical lapses can fester, leading to significant damage to employee morale and trust.
Conclusion: A Message for Future Generations
Dealing with HR bullying is not just about individual perseverance; it is about advocating for a work culture that values respect, honesty, and transparency. My journey towards a full resolution and eventual promotion to a better environment serves as an inspiration to others who may face similar challenges. It is clear that corporate HR must be a force for good, ensuring that the workplace is a safe haven for all.