Workplaces bullies are using a range of subtle tactics and behaviour to intimidate their colleagues, according to research by the Chartered Management Institute.

The report found that almost half said they knew of incidents where opportunities for promotion or training were blocked, and 43% said they had seen threats made about job security.

Six out of 10 respondents felt workplace bullying had become increasingly common, and 36% believed the situation had worsened because their company was ineffective in deterring the bullies.

Asked about how they dealt with the problem, four out of 10 would confront a person behaving in a bullying manner. Only 11% would involve a senior manager, and just 5% would seek help from HR.