Final answer:
The most appropriate response to workplace bullies is to report the behavior to a manager or HR, maintain professionalism, and focus on problem-solving rather than blame. Avoid confrontations that could escalate the situation and involve supervisors if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most appropriate way for workers to handle workplace bullies is to report any incidents of bullying to their manager and/or human resources (HR). When dealing with workplace violence, which includes any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening, disruptive behavior that occurs at the workplace, employees should avoid confrontation that could lead to escalation of the situation. Instead, employees should focus on maintaining a professional demeanor and involving their supervisor or HR if they ever feel intimidated or unsafe.
Employees should choose their words carefully, stay as calm as possible, and listen to the other side of the story, which contributes to a respectful and open communication channel. It's beneficial to ask open-ended questions and restate what the other person has said to avoid misunderstandings and affirm that you were listening. The ultimate goal is to focus on solving the problem and not on assigning blame. If the conflict cannot be resolved directly, involving a supervisor or HR is the advised course of action.