Handling workplace bullying when family dynamics are involved.
We need to talk about nepotism and workplace bullying, because WHEW, does it ever mess with our ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly! Here's the real deal — when family ties eclipse talent, we're not just hurting individual careers. We're poisoning the well of psychological safety that teams need to thrive. How can you tell someone to "bring their whole self to work" when the rules aren't the same for everyone? KIm, Amy, and Jason explain why avoiding these conversations doesn't help anyone. Whether you're dealing with the CEO's daughter who's actually crushing it, or the founder's cousin who's... not so much, you've got to stay rooted in those two key principles: Care Personally AND Challenge Directly. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode’s topic on a listener’s question about workplace nepotism.
(00:02:52) Listener Question: Nepotistic Bully
A listener’s challenging situation involving a CEO's son who is bullying employees.
(00:03:48) Strategies for Workplace Bullying
Documenting incidents and preparing for a conversation with higher-ups.
(00:11:43) Building Solidarity and Seeking Support
Strategies for finding allies to support you and sharing experiences with others.
(00:15:44) Challenges of Confronting Nepotism
The difficulty of escalating issues involving family ties at work.
(00:19:25) Exit Strategies and Self-Protection
Knowing your exit options and protecting your well-being.
(00:31:17) Direct Conversations and Escalation
Preparing for a direct conversation with the bully and their higher-ups.
(00:38:52) The Role and Limitations of HR
When HR should be involved in addressing workplace bullying.
(00:49:06) Seeking External Legal Support
Guidance on consulting a lawyer for severe or unresolved bullying cases.
(00:52:43) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for handling bullying, documenting, building solidarity, and escalating issues.
(00:54:44) Conclusion
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