Intro

Good medical professionals communicate clearly and work effectively with colleagues in the interests of patients.

GMC Good Medical practice states that:

48 You must treat colleagues with kindness, courtesy and respect.

51 You must be compassionate towards colleagues who have problems with their performance or health. But you must put patient safety first at all times.

52 You must help to create a culture that is respectful, fair, supportive, and compassionate by role modelling behaviours consistent with these values.

53 You should be aware of how your behaviour may influence others within and outside the team.

54 You should be aware of the risk of bias, and consider how your own life experience, culture and beliefs influence your interactions with others, and may impact on your decisions and actions.

55 You must show respect for, and sensitivity towards, others' life experience, cultures and beliefs.

56 You must not abuse, discriminate against, bully, or harass anyone based on their personal characteristics, or for any other reason.

57 You must not act in a sexual way towards colleagues with the effect or purpose of causing offence, embarrassment, humiliation or distress.

Being told that I have made someone feel bullied or undermined can be difficult and upsetting. My first reaction may be to feel defensive, but this is also an opportunity to reflect and improve. Many people do not realise how their words or actions are perceived. Responding well shows professionalism and commitment to a safe working culture.

First steps

1. I stay calm and give myself time to process the feedback.
2. I listen without interrupting or dismissing.
3. I remind myself: intention and impact are not the same. Even if I didn't mean harm, the impact may still be real.

How to respond constructively

1. I thank the person for raising their concern.
2. I reflect honestly: could my tone, timing, or choice of words have been better?
3. If appropriate, I apologise for the impact, even if the intent was not malicious.
4. I seek feedback from a trusted colleague or mentor.

Sources of support

1. Seek support from trusted colleagues or the local department leadership
2. Local HR and mediation services.
3. GMC guidance on maintaining professional behaviour.

Being open to feedback, even when uncomfortable, helps me grow and strengthens trust in the surgical team.