How to Deal with Workplace Harassment
Written by
- Redaction Team
- June 16, 2023
- Business Planning, Entrepreneurship
Workplace harassment can be tricky to handle, but it’s important to know that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure that your rights are respected. This article will outline some of the ways to deal with it if it happens to you.
Recognizing Workplace Harassment
The most important thing when dealing with workplace harassment is recognizing it. Workplace harassment can come in many forms, including verbal abuse, physical intimidation, threats, sexual harassment, and discrimination based on race, gender, or any other protected status. It’s important to note that workplace harassment is not just limited to interactions between coworkers. It can also involve actions by management or even clients.
Documenting the Harassment
If you experience harassment at work, it’s important to document it. This will help you build a case if you choose to pursue legal action against the harasser or the company. You should keep a record of every incident of harassment, including the date, time, location, and details of what happened. If possible, try to have witnesses to the harassment. This documentation can be used as evidence in a court of law.
Reporting the Harassment
Once you’ve documented the harassment, you should report it to your supervisor or manager. If your supervisor or manager is the harasser, you should report it to their supervisor or the human resources department. When reporting the harassment, be clear and concise about what has been happening. Provide the dates, times, and locations of the incidents and any witnesses that can corroborate your story. Your employer has a legal obligation to investigate the harassment and stop it from happening again.
Seeking Support
Dealing with workplace harassment can be stressful and emotionally draining. It’s important to seek support from friends, family members, or a therapist to help you cope with the situation. You may also want to get assistance from advocacy groups or professional organizations that specialize in workplace harassment.
Asserting Your Rights
If your employer fails to take action to stop the harassment, you may have the right to file a complaint with a government agency such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC investigates claims of discrimination and harassment in the workplace. If you choose to pursue legal action, it’s important to seek the advice of an attorney who specializes in employment law, such as Ferraro Vega San Diego Employment Lawyers.
Employers Must Create a Safe and Supportive Workplace
Employers have to provide a safe and supportive workplace for their employees. This includes taking action to prevent and stop harassment in the workplace. Employers can do this by having policies and training programs that address harassment and discrimination. They can also provide support services to employees who have been harassed.
Dealing with workplace harassment can be a difficult and stressful experience. However, it’s important to know that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and assert your rights. If this is happening to you, there is help out there, so don’t suffer in silence.
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