Workplace bullying

Work Unlimited

Guardian

Monday February 14, 2000

If you have been bullied at work, you are not alone. According to new research from Good Housekeeping magazine, one in four women have been the victims of workplace bullying. The magazine also reports that 60% of those polled admit to suffering from work-related stress, while 30% had been victims of sexism. But the overall result was more optimistic - three-quarters of readers are happy in their current job.

New job blues

You can't remember anyone's name, the software on the PC is defeating you, and you have yet to transfer a phone call successfully. Sound familiar? Starting a new job is extremely stressful, says recruitment agency Adecco, and a significant proportion of people quit within the first few weeks. Researching the company, asking for a tour of the premises, and getting properly briefed on your job description will all help to make you feel more positive on the day. Finally, smile and appear confident - you might even convince yourself!

Waterworks

Looking for something different for your firm's event this year? How about dragon boat racing? According to Peterborough-based Gable Events, teams of ten people furiously paddling a 30ft boat to the beat of a drum is one of the fastest growing team building activities in the country. The company has launched new, shorter boats to make the sport accessible to smaller firms. This month saw the start of the Chinese Year of the Dragon - what better reason to do a spot of paddling? Call Gable Events on 01780 470718 for more details.

Travel in comfort

Does your boss dread the next business trip? A new book may offer some comfort. The Survivor's Guide to Business Travel by Roger Collis gives an insider's tips on beating the system. Taken from his International Herald Tribune column, the book explains how to get upgrades, beat jet lag, save money, and keep fit while circumnavigating the globe. It costs £12.99 from Kogan Page, tel 01903 828503.

Government homework

Continuing its bid to improve our work-home balance, the government has set up a committee to advise it on the issues involved. Margaret Hodge, minister for employment and equal opportunities, aims to bring together the needs of bosses and workers, improving profitability while helping staff to enjoy more flexible working. The committee will examine, among other things, the UK's long hours culture as it prepares a new work-home campaign to be launched in the near future.

• Compiled by Penny Cottee, editor of Executive PA magazine