Tough Guy: Workplace Bullying Case Study

2090 Words5 Pages

Jeremy Frazer, an Investment Associate at Hudson Bank, has encountered a hostile work environment due to the abhorrent behavior of Vice President Chip Mazey (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow, 2007). Mazey continuously bullies his subordinates, but is considered a rainmaker within the company (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow). Mazey’s misdeeds include overworking associates, analysts and his secretary, taking credit for others’ work, and verbal abuse. Mazey regularly makes derogatory and demeaning comments to subordinates about everything from their work product to the way they dress to their accents (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow). Because Mazey brings in a lot of money, the bank has somewhat turned a blind eye towards his behavior and most subordinates have learned to deal with him; chalking the situation up to the way banking works (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow). However, some full-time associates have refused to work with him (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow). With the exception of his work with Mazey, Frazer enjoys working with other managers, likes his job and feels that he fits in at Hudson (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow, 2007).

The Mazey situation has Frazer concerned and he isn’t sure what to do about it. Upon speaking with other employees, Frazer has learned that they are also concerned, but feel somewhat powerless to correct the problem. Employees are concerned that bringing attention to the problem could actually make it worse. (Yemen, Clawson & Bigelow, 2007)

Criteria for Effective Solution

Any solution reached must improve the environment of the employees, while at the same not hinder the company from making profits. It is likely that executives at the bank are not aware of the full extent of Mazey’s misdeeds; although they seem to have so...

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