Target experiences of workplace bullying on online labourmarkets: Uncovering the nuances of resilience

Abstract

Purpose–The purpose of this paper is to report a study of bullying on online labour markets (OLMs),highlighting how abuse unfolds in digital workplaces and depicting the trajectory of target resilience.Design/methodology/approach–Adopting van Manen’s hermeneutic phenomenology, targets ’lived experiences of bullying on OLMs was explored. Data gathered from Indian freelancers located on Up work via conversational telephonic interviews were subjected to sententious and selective thematic analyses.Findings–The core theme of“pursuing long-term and holistic well-being”showed how targets tapped intoyet augmented their resilience while navigating the features of OLMs as they coped with their experiences of bullying. The interface between targets’internal and external resources, including platform support,vis-à-visthe concreteness and permanence of the site as targets asserted agency, sought control and realized positive outcomes while preserving their reputation, relationality, success and continuity was captured. It may be noted that bullying in digital workplaces is exclusively virtual in form.Research limitations/implications–Alongside theoretical generalization , statistical generalizability of the findings should be established.Practical implications–Recommendations for action for platforms and targets are forwarded.In particular, the critical role of formal workplace support in influencing employee resilience is emphasized.Originality/value–The paper makes several pioneering contributions. First, it reports the first empirical inquiry examining bullying in digital workplaces. Moreover, OLM research on abuse and harassment has not been undertaken so far. Second, it furthers theorization of resilience, especially with regard to work place antecedents. Apart from identifying the new organizational antecedent of formal workplace support,it uncovers the complexities of resilience. Third, it extends knowledge on workplace cyberbullying, positive outcomes of workplace bullying and OLMs in India.