Workplace Harassment: What it Is and What You Can Do
You’re happy and content in your dream job until someone at work starts making your workplace uncomfortable and dangerous. With a whopping 52% of people having experienced or witnessed workplace harassment, this issue is far from uncommon – so knowing what steps to take when you encounter harassment in the workplace is paramount.
But what can you really do to fight back against an oppressive environment at work?
What is Workplace Harassment?
According to USAGov, workplace harassment describes any unwelcome conduct – such as offensive jokes, physical assaults and threats, intimidation, and name-calling – based on an individual’s race, color, sex, religion, disability, and other factors.
Workplace harassment violates employee rights and becomes unlawful when it creates a hostile and abusive environment where the employee is forced to endure the negative conduct to continue their employment.
Step One: Document the Harassment
If you believe you’re being harassed in the workplace, the first step is to start documenting everything. When you report your harassment, you might be asked to back up your claims with specific evidence of incidents, such as the times, dates, and places where the harassment occurred.
If you have more evidence of the harassment, such as texts and emails from the perpetrator, keep these on hand – they’ll be incredibly valuable in proving your case and ensuring you get the justice you deserve.
Step Two: Report the Incident
Once you have concrete documentation of the harassment you’ve experienced, it’s time to bring it to your employer’s attention according to your workplace’s anti-harassment policy. Following the steps in your policy, you can report the incident and file a complaint for your HR department and supervisors to address.
If your workplace has no anti-harassment policy, don’t fret – there are still things you can do to get justice. If you don’t have a policy, talk with a supervisor, explain the situation, and inquire about any next steps. You can also directly report the harassment to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if you don’t have other reporting guidelines.
Step Three: Escalate if Necessary
Ideally, you’ll get justice for the workplace harassment you’ve experienced by reporting it according to your anti-harassment policy. However, there are some situations where workplaces neglect to help their employees deal with harassment, and that’s where escalation comes into play.
It’s best to consult a workplace harassment lawyer who will guide you through reporting and getting justice for the harassment you’ve experienced. A workplace harassment attorney will understand the ins and outs of your situation and know how to best help you. When you experience harassment in the workplace, it’s best to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible.
Face Workplace Harassment Head-On With Legal Services
No one wants to be the victim or witness to workplace harassment – but if the time comes when you or someone you know faces harassment in the workplace, consulting a workplace harassment lawyer is essential. These experts will help you navigate a complex legal landscape like a pro to ensure you get the retribution you deserve.