Workplace Buzz: Today’s Headlines

Workplace Buzz on November 5, 2007 7:13 AM

Healthy Workplace Bill
With research indicating some 54 million Americans are bullied at work, state lawmakers are considering a healthy workplace bill. Work bullies cost employers millions in stress-related illnesses, absences and lost productivity. And Ruth says bullying isn't the same as tough management, but rather dumping misery on someone else. "Verbal abuse, or conduct that is threatening, intimidating or humiliating -- it is the undermining of somebody's work, it is sabotage.," Dr. Gary said. Without a law protecting victims, they often wind up in court or quit. KEPRTV.com

Diversity Programs
White men, frequently shut out of the debate on workplace diversity, can be a major force for making positive changes, a consultant said Thursday. With white men comprising a vast majority of corporate decision makers, it only makes sense to include them in discussions of how to make women and minorities feel more appreciated and accepted at work, said Tim McNichol of White Men as Full Diversity Partners LLC, a Portland, Ore.-based company that helps businesses enact diversity programs. Birmingham News

Incorporating Humor Skills
One episode of “The Office” will show you how not to use humor in the workplace. But when done with the right touch, humor can defuse tense situations, create an atmosphere of trust and help people relate to one another, said participants at the second-annual Oregon Women’s Comedy Festival. Do it wrong and embarrassment is the least of your worries. Register Guard

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