Bracing Against Bullying: Jessica Hickman's Mission to Foster a Speak-Up Culture
Workplace bullying, an invisible monster that silently creeps into organizations, is an issue that has remained largely unaddressed for a long time. In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Jessica Hickman, a staunch advocate against workplace bullying, to shed light on this rampant problem.
Hickman, a workplace consultant, speaker, educator, coach, and author hailing from Orange, New South Wales, has been through the harrowing experience of workplace bullying. She spent three painstaking years battling workplace bullying, a journey that eventually led her to develop a global mission - fostering a speak-up culture and combating workplace bullying.
Hickman's story highlights the damaging effects of the bystander effect and workplace violence. It's a vivid depiction of how a hostile work environment can lead to detrimental physical and mental health impacts. Through her narrative, Hickman underscores the importance of self-preservation and education. She provides strategies for self-protection, emphasizing the necessity of understanding one's worth and setting boundaries.
In this episode, we delve into the various forms of workplace bullying, from physical to virtual, and discuss the need for proactive conversations in organizations. Hickman introduces her five L's strategy, a transformational tool that encourages individuals to shift from being silent bystanders to proactive upstanders.
As the conversation progresses, Hickman shares her journey of discovering her purpose and passion, which led her to establish her successful business. She believes in understanding your worth and setting boundaries to protect oneself from unnecessary suffering. We explore the long-term process of building a purpose-driven career and navigating change.
The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of diverse voices in creating meaningful change. Jessica's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. It's a call to action for everyone to speak up and be heard.
Workplace bullying is a grave issue that needs immediate attention. The physical, mental, and emotional repercussions can be long-lasting and deeply impact an individual's personal and professional life. By sharing her experiences, Jessica Hickman has thrown light on a significant issue, encouraging everyone to transform from bystanders to upstanders.
It's time to break the silence around workplace bullying. The first step is to listen, learn, and act. By fostering a speak-up culture, we can contribute to transforming our workplaces into safe and supportive environments where everyone is valued and heard. Let's pledge to stand up against bullying and create a culture of respect and empathy.