Bystander intervention: Creating a safer and more respectful workplace

What we allow — and what we challenge — shapes workplace culture. When inappropriate behaviour goes unchecked, it becomes the norm. That's why bystander intervention is so important. A simple action, a well-placed comment or a quiet but firm stance can turn the tide. It's not about being confrontational — it's about making the workplace safer and more respectful for everyone.

What is bystander intervention?

Every workplace has moments when someone witnesses inappropriate behaviour — whether it's an off-colour joke, a dismissive remark or outright harassment. Bystander intervention is about stepping up in these moments to disrupt harmful behaviour.

If people fear repercussions, they might hesitate to intervene. But standing by silently allows toxic behaviour to persist. You don't have to be a hero or make a scene. Sometimes, small actions are enough to shift the dynamic.

The role of leaders in intervention

As a department head, you set the tone for workplace culture. If you take bystander intervention seriously, your team will too.

Leaders have the unique ability to normalise intervention. When you openly address inappropriate behaviour, you signal to employees you expect them to speak up — and value it when they do. You can also provide training, reinforce policies and create a safe environment for employees to take action without fear of retaliation.

You don't have to police every conversation — just try to foster a culture where respect is the baseline. Your leadership is the difference between a workplace where bad behaviour festers and one where it's swiftly addressed.

Practical steps to intervene

Intervening doesn't always mean a dramatic confrontation. Depending on the situation, different approaches work best. Here are a few strategies:

• Direct approach: If it's safe to do so, call out the behaviour immediately. A simple "That's not appropriate" or "Let's keep this professional" can be powerful.
• Disrupt the situation: Change the subject, create a distraction or pull the person aside for a private conversation.
• Delegate: If you're unsure how to handle it, seek support from HR, another manager or someone with authority.
• Delay: If immediate intervention isn't possible, check in with the affected individual later and offer support.

The key is to do something. When in doubt, I go for distraction to end the behaviour immediately and create space to consider the best approach forward.

Recognising red flags

Not all inappropriate behaviour is blatant. Sometimes, it's subtle — eye-rolling in meetings, exclusion from conversations or repeated microaggressions. Spotting these red flags is crucial.

Some signs intervention may be needed:

• A colleague frequently makes jokes at someone's expense.
• Someone consistently interrupts or talks over others.
• A team member expresses discomfort with another's behaviour but feels powerless to address it.
• You notice a shift in someone's demeanour after an interaction.

Recognising these patterns and addressing them early prevents larger issues from developing.

Creating a culture of accountability

Workplace culture isn't just about policies — it's about everyday interactions. Here's how to build accountability within your team:

• Set clear expectations: Encourage and support people to speak up.
• Recognise positive actions: Acknowledge employees who intervene or model respectful behaviour.
• Provide training: Regular workshops on bystander intervention help normalise the practice.
• Encourage open conversations: Create spaces where employees feel safe discussing workplace issues without fear of retaliation.

Accountability reinforces respect as the norm. When everyone takes responsibility, inappropriate behaviour has nowhere to thrive.

Foster a more respectful workplace with ICML

Bystander intervention is a shift towards making the workplace safer and more inclusive one action at a time. As a leader, you have the power to create a culture where intervention is second nature. Lead by example, empower your team and watch as respect becomes the workplace standard.

For further training on handling workplace issues, explore our Bystander Intervention Course.