Unspeakable Workplace Horror Tales: How to Navigate Through Fear

Introduction

Workplace horror stories often go untold, yet they are a significant part of many professions. From bomb threats and death threats to assault cases, apartment complex management is actually one of the most challenging and scary gigs out there. Dealing with potentially volatile and dangerous situations is part of the job, but how do you handle it when the horror gets too close to home?

The Importance of Professionalism

Staying calm and composed is the key to handling such terrifying situations. When faced with a crisis, it's crucial to rely on those trained to handle the situation. Additionally, never break down on the job; instead, wait until you are safely off the clock to let your emotions out.

Personal Experience

During my tenure as an apartment complex manager, I encountered a number of harrowing incidents. I won’t go into every detail, but some notable events include bomb threats, death threats, assaults, drug overdoes, accidents, suicides, murders, fires, and explosions. Although I wasn't in law enforcement or firefighting, I had to manage these scenarios as part of my job.

The Bomb Threat Incident

One day, I reached the office early, still one of the first to arrive. After freshening up in the washroom, I noticed something peculiar—to my shock, someone had pulled their bare foot out from under a door! Initially, I was on high alert; thoughts of the person being extremely tall crossed my mind. However, after dismissing this thought, I felt relieved and continued my day.

When a HR representative arrived, we both entered the room. She immediately opened the door, but no one was present. It was only later, after I had made friends and felt comfortable discussing these incidents, that other employees confided they had experienced similar occurrences. They had even heard someone crying in the restroom but found no one. The backstory seemed to point to a long-past suicide by a housekeeping staff member who had been coerced into an unwanted pregnancy, leading to her untimely end.

Strategies for Handling Workplace Horror

Here are some strategies for navigating through such intense and unsettling situations in a professional and personal capacity:

Stay calm and focused—relying on trained professionals to handle the situation efficiently. Avoid breakdowns on the job, as it could unsettle others and compromise safety. Wait until you are off the clock to address your emotions. Establish a support system—friends, family, or colleagues who can offer a listening ear or comfort when needed. Focus on preventative measures and company policies to mitigate risks. Regular training and drills can help everyone be prepared. Document any incidents and report them to the appropriate authorities—many attacks or threats can be prevented with proactive reporting and investigation.

Conclusion

While the world of accident-prone workplaces and supernatural occurrences might seem far from some professions, for others like apartment complex managers, these are a part of the job. The key is to manage your emotions and stay focused on your responsibilities, even when the stakes are high. Remember, it's not about being fearless, but about managing fear with professionalism and a support system in place.

Additional Resources

If you're dealing with a traumatic workplace incident, you might find it helpful to read up on these resources:

McNulty, L. (2021). Dealing with Difficult People in the Workplace: A Step-by-Step Guide. John Wiley Sons. Detert, J. R., Maguire, M. A., Schweitzer, M. (2015). A theory of moral credentialing. Academy of Management Review, 40(2), 264-283. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (JOEM) discusses various safety and wellness measures in the workplace.