Thank you for calling it what it is – bullying. Too many organisations shy away from that term, even when behaviours are clearly bullying tactics, even now in 2025.
I wish I’d known about the previous version of this book 10 years ago. The content struck a chord with some of my experience, too, where younger women who have felt inadequate or intimidated by older, more accomplished, more confident and well-liked/established colleagues. And entering a new workplace where existing female staff felt threatened by the ‘newbie’ shut me out and would not offer any assistance or guidance/training/hand over, but instead only offered criticisms and contradictory ‘advice’.
The book exposes the reality behind the myth that women naturally support and uplift one another. Especially in the professional workspace, due to limited opportunities, hierarchies and competition. The author’s personal accounts and poignant case studies vividly illustrate how these dynamics play out, highlighting behaviours such as exclusion, passive-aggressive behaviour, and bullying.
The book does show a balanced perspective and challenges us to consider the root causes of this type of behaviour. It also outlines that these issues may be a symptom of the current workplace culture, which sets us up to compete against each other (regardless of gender). And points out that outdated corporate structures could also be a contributing factor, rather than ‘just’ female nature.
There are some great recommendations included with a framework for change. Such as strong mentoring networks, clear and open communication and promoting leadership styles that prioritise collaboration. The suggestions act as a strategic guide for organisations and individual women wanting healthier and better relationships at work.
This book helped remind me that I am not alone in having been subjected to female-to-female bullying. It also served as a reminder that I made it through. I’m here on the other side, stronger and more resilient than ever.
This book is an essential read for women who’ve been on the receiving end of professional bullying as well as those who haven’t, and also men in the workplace. It outlines the issues, which are not always obvious and also offers solutions.
The real-life stories are very moving. The content struck a chord with some of my own experience, too, where younger women who have felt inadequate or intimidated by older, more accomplished, more confident and well-liked/established colleagues. Or entering a new workplace where existing female staff felt threatened by the ‘newbie’ shut me out and would not offer any assistance or guidance/training/hand over, but instead only offered criticisms and contradictory ‘advice’.
Let’s keep talking about this subject; it’s about time it was all out in the open.
Angela Owen-Brown, EA Corporate Services, City of Armadale
