Anti-social behaviour in business is a term used to describe any behaviour which is damaging to a business, its employees or customers. It can involve anything from bullying and intimidation to fraud, theft, and discrimination. The goal of anti-social behaviour in business is to create an environment that is unsafe or uncomfortable for staff and customers, as well as damaging to the company’s reputation.
Types of Anti-Social Behaviour
Bullying and Intimidation: Bullying and intimidation can take many forms, including physical or verbal aggression, belittling, and mocking. It is important to remember that bullying and intimidation are not always overt – they can be subtle and insidious.
Discrimination: Discrimination can be based on any number of factors including age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability. Discrimination can be overt or subtle, and can take many forms, including exclusion, unequal treatment, and derogatory language.
Fraud and Theft: Fraud and theft can be difficult to detect, but can have a significant financial impact on a business.
Harassment: Harassment is any unwelcome behaviour which is offensive, intimidating, or degrading. It can be physical, verbal, or psychological.
Effects of Anti-Social Behaviour
The effects of anti-social behaviour in business can be far-reaching and can have a significant impact on a company’s performance. It can lead to poor morale, increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, and a poorer reputation. It can also lead to increased costs, as the company may have to spend additional money on training, legal fees, and compensation.
Preventing Anti-Social Behaviour
The best way to prevent anti-social behaviour in business is to have a clear anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policy in place. This should be communicated to all staff and customers, and any breaches should be dealt with swiftly and firmly. It is also important to ensure that staff are aware of the consequences of engaging in anti-social behaviour, and that they receive regular training and support.
