Stand Up For Your Rights: How To Deal With Workplace Sexual Harassment
If your days at work have evolved into a miserable and stress-filled ordeal because of sexual harassment, you should take steps sooner rather than later. This type of problem seldom just disappears on its own, and sometimes worsens if allowed to continue. You don't have to just put up with demoralizing and demeaning treatment by your supervisor or co-workers: you have a right to earn a living without being sexually harassed. Read the below information to learn about your rights to work in an harassment-free workplace.
Two Facets of Sexual Harassment
If you often feel that your job is on the line if you don't comply with unwanted advances from a supervisor, you may be the victim of quid pro quo harassment, which translates roughly to "something for something".
This type of harassment is sometimes subtle and difficult to ascertain, but eventually it will become more and more obvious that your career is being harmed by your failure to play along with your harasser as you endure punishment in the form of exclusion from important meetings, client contact, communications and denied raises or a bonus.
Co-workers (and supervisors) who make it difficult for you to avoid sexually explicit emails, jokes, artwork and more create a second form of sexual harassment: the hostile work environment. Additionally you may find yourself constantly targeted with unwanted and repeated requests for dates or even sexual favors, in spite of your efforts to ignore, humor or turn down these "offers".
Take Action
- Let the harasser know, in writing, that you are offended.
- Consult with your company's guidelines to report the offensive behavior to appropriate parties.
- Keep concise and regular notes detailing each incident and your efforts to discourage it.
If That Doesn't Work
If the harassment does not stop, contact a lawyer. While you may not be ready to actually take the big leap and file suit, simply retaining legal help can benefit you in many ways. Your attorney can inform your employer of your concerns and put them on notice that unless changes are made they may find themselves in court. Additionally, your attorney can offer you vital support and assist in your efforts to file complaints with the proper authorities.
Don't put off taking action against your harasser; it could make it appear that the issue is not serious enough and weaken your case. Contact an attorney at http://www.austinlrs.com for more assistance and support.
