45 per cent of Kiwis have experienced bullying or harassment at work due to their gender, age, ethnicity, sexual
orientation or disability
09 Apr 2019
Almost one half (45 per cent) of New Zealand professionals have experienced bullying or harassment at work due to their
gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability, according to a survey by recruiting experts Hays.
The survey of over 1,000 people across Australia and New Zealand found the figure rises to 64 per cent of people living
with a disclosed disability, 58 per cent of people who identify as LGBTIQ+, 50 per cent of women and 50 per cent of
mature-age people.
Although less men than women overall report bullying or harassment, at 37 per cent it is still alarmingly high.
When asked what steps were taken to stop the bullying or harassment, 41 per cent of respondents said none.
A further 15 per cent of those who experienced bullying and harassment chose to leave the organisation rather than
report the behaviour.
Other respondents said they reported the issue to HR, a team leader, supervisor or manager and it was resolved promptly
to their satisfaction. This often involved mediation or the appointment of an investigator.
“We chose to explore this issue through a diversity and inclusion lens since bullying and harassment cuts through many
of the key diversity and inclusion considerations we have identified through talking to both employers and
professionals,” says Adam Shapley, Managing Director of Hays in New Zealand.
“Measures range from the formal letter of the law, sanctions and workplace guides to day-to-day awareness of leaders and
managers and the behaviours of all employees. However, given our findings, it seems that despite a growing awareness of
the problem, more needs to be done to stop harassment and bullying at work – for all demographic groups.”
Hays suggests employers could start by becoming aware of anti-bullying laws and follow correct procedures – if they
aren’t already.
Employment New Zealand provides information on employer and employee must do’s to resolve problems while the Citizens Advice Bureau offers information for employers and employees on what to do if bullying or harassment has occurred.
For more, see the FY 2018-19 Hays Diversity & Inclusion Report at www.hays.net.nz/diversity-inclusion
Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.
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