Reader’s teasing advice leaves a lot to be desired

Simon Spindler tells us (Letters, Personnel Today, 5 June), that teasing is OK as long as it is friendly and not malicious, and that we should not get too hung up about it.

Could Simon please let us all know where that fine dividing line between teasing and harassment or between teasing and bullying is? I’m sure we would all like to know, because bullying and harassment can result in seriously upset staff and expensive tribunal cases. And, of course, the person being teased needs to know when it is only friendly and not malicious.

Actually, I think he needs to remember that it is the recipient who decides where the line is.

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Remind me not to approach his organisation if I want any coaching for managers on discrimination or bullying.

Judy Williams, Human resources manager