The Economy and Workplace Violence

We’ve seen news reports about executives of American International Group (AIG) receiving death threats over their recent bonuses. These reports may make us think about workplace violence in big companies, in metropolitan areas. Given the desperation lots of people are feeling right now, it would be a mistake to pigeonhole workplace violence in this manner.

According to the Washington Post, an enigmatic employee of the Homestead (1,000 employees), a luxurious resort in Hot Springs, Virginia (population 4,600), shot and killed two supervisors this past Saturday. Although there was no history of disciplinary problems, the employee’s hours had been reportedly reduced recently.

This employee lived a hermit-like existence. He was described as “strange” and “almost painfully quiet.” Some of his coworkers thought he was deaf and mute, because he never said anything or responded to questions.

It can be problematic to target an employee because he seems strange or mysterious. The truth is, however, that employees who commit workplace violence are often described in those terms after the violence.

Stress abounds in all workplaces today. A reserved employee isn’t likely to let you know that he’s upset. Be alert to signs of potential workplace violence. Pay attention to employees who’ve been adversely impacted recently.

On the day of the shootings, the employee passed in a corridor the only coworker he ever talked to. He failed to return her greeting as he walked straight ahead with a look of determination and his hands thrust deep in his jacket pockets.

Most of us aren’t trained to look for signs of violence. In today’s world, all managers and supervisors should be provided some kind of training. We’ve all said this recession is different from others we’ve experienced. It definitely is. Let’s do all we can to keep it from being deadly as well.