By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

Intimidation, People and Work Spaces

The Inspiration for my writings often comes from the world around me—my environment, my experiences, and the people I interact with daily. I’m generally slow to speak, and when I do, I often do not carefully consider my words, even if they might hurt those around me. My friends often remark that I’m slow to act but quick to talk, only to fall silent again. This trait puzzles me, but as society evolves, I’ve learned to be dynamic, striving not to hurt others, understanding that everyone has their struggles.

We’ve all faced challenging times in our personal lives, shaping our attitudes and perspectives. These difficult situations, sometimes of our own making or due to immaturity, often lead us to trust others too much or due to our inherent dispositions. A mentor of mine once advised that during tough times, there’s no need to prove one’s innocence, as doing so might hurt more. He suggested that it’s better to accept what others assume and move on, trusting that the truth will eventually come out, even if only after we’re gone.

Intimidation and Victimization in the Workplace

Intimidation and victimization are pervasive issues that stifle the brilliant minds within the workforce in Sierra Leone. This problem is so ingrained in our workplace culture that it has persisted for decades, often hidden until someone, like myself, faces it directly. Various forms of intimidation can occur for several reasons:

1. Ignorance of the Facts: Workers can be targeted for things they are unaware of, accused of actions or decisions they didn’t make. This type of intimidation preys on the lack of information and can lead to unjust blame and mistrust within the team. A worker might find themselves in trouble for a project error they had no part in, or be blamed for a decision made by higher-ups without their knowledge.
2. Assumed Associations: People might assume that your ideas are influenced by those you are close to at work, leading to misplaced blame. This form of intimidation can create a toxic work environment where alliances are constantly scrutinized and genuine contributions are overshadowed by false perceptions. For example, if a manager dislikes a particular employee and you are seen associating with that person, your ideas might be unfairly discredited or ignored.
3. Independent Thoughts: Making independent suggestions can be seen as a threat, leading to backlash from those who feel challenged. Innovative ideas should be welcomed in the workplace, but when they are perceived as threats, it stifles creativity and discourages proactive problem-solving. A bright employee proposing a new method to improve efficiency might be seen as challenging the status quo, causing defensive reactions from colleagues or superiors who feel their authority or competence is being questioned.
4. Threat to Position: Colleagues might fear losing their position to you, leading to efforts to undermine you. When an employee demonstrates exceptional skill or competence, it can trigger insecurity in others who worry about their own job security.
5. Support for Colleagues: Supporting a co-worker can make you a target if others feel threatened by your alliance. Solidarity among employees is vital, but it can also attract negative attention from those who view such relationships as a threat to their influence.
6. Loyalty: Being loyal to certain individuals can result in being seen as part of a faction, attracting negative attention. Loyalty should be a virtue, but in a competitive workplace, it can be misinterpreted as taking sides.
7. Family Dynamics: Sometimes, positions are coveted for family members, and your presence in a role can be seen as an obstacle. Nepotism can create tension, and you may become a target simply because someone wants your job for a relative.
8. Internal Competition: Applying for advertised positions within the same organization can lead to hostility from those who see you as competition. Healthy competition can quickly turn toxic when others feel threatened by your ambition and potential.
9. Self-Interest: Self-serving colleagues may intimidate others to maintain their own power and influence. Personal agendas can lead to manipulative behavior aimed at preserving one’s status at the expense of others.
10. Good Rapport: Having a good relationship with co-workers can provoke jealousy and resentment. Positive relationships and effective teamwork are essential, but they can also attract envy from those who feel excluded or insecure.
11. Qualifications: Being highly qualified can intimidate others who feel less secure about their own positions. Superior qualifications can be seen as a threat, leading to efforts to undermine or discredit you.
12. Comparative Advantage: Possessing unique skills or advantages can make you a target of those who feel threatened by your potential. Unique abilities or insights can set you apart, but they can also make you a focal point for competitive hostility.

Coping with Intimidation

Intimidation is a crafty tactic employed by those who believe they have seen and know it all. They might go behind your back to find any shortcomings to tarnish the reputation you’ve worked hard to build. However, everyone has skeletons in their closet. If someone thinks the best way to handle a situation is to expose our past, so be it.

For those experiencing these ordeals, my advice is to trust in GOD. Seek solace in faith, perhaps by quoting a Bible verse that resonates with you. The good Lord will guide and protect us all, and in due time, divine justice will prevail. Remember, adversity often reveals true strength, and enduring these challenges can fortify your resolve and character.

Intimidation and victimization in the workplace are significant issues that undermine the potential and morale of Sierra Leone’s workforce. By acknowledging these problems and supporting each other, we can create a healthier, more productive work environment where everyone can thrive. Trust in your abilities, maintain your integrity, and believe that, in the end, truth and justice will triumph.

 Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, June 3rd , 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)