Bullying costs the Australian economy up to $36 billion per annum, between $17,000 - $24,000 per case if it goes legal. The true cost is in permanent psychological stress, fear, anger, and loss of self-esteem - all before poor productivity, performance and absenteeism is even considered. Bullying can be methodical and calculated, leaving others immobilized for fear of retribution. Examples range from keeping workers with families at work later than necessary, deliberately withholding information and creating unrealistic workloads. Bullies can demonstrate passive control that may go unnoticed or might happen behind closed doors. And the behaviour can be deemed as acceptable by other employees. So, how do you manage yourself around a bully?

Stephen spoke to Professional Leadership Speaker Ricky Nowak about the cost of bullying.