Three Tips to Help You Deal with Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can be one of the most devastating experiences to have in the workplace. In addition to making it difficult to perform your job duties, you also might feel as if your personal safety is under attack.

The good news is you have a right to protect yourself and take legal action regarding sexual harassment. It’s important to work with someone who understands harassment laws and can help you protect your rights.

What are three of the most important things you should do if you are sexually harassed in the workplace?

Log Activity

One of the most important things you can do if you even suspect you might be a victim of sexual harassment is to start writing things down. Keep a log of every event that makes you uncomfortable, even if you aren’t sure you are legally being victimized.

For more information on how sexual harassment is defined, read this information from the New York State Attorney Generalthis information from the New York State Attorney General.

In the log, document exactly what occurred and how you reacted. Also keep notes about anyone you speak with about the harassment and how he or she responds. The goal is to have a detailed record of the events that led to your taking legal action.

Make sure you keep this log with you at all times. Do not store it on your employer’s computer or other devices unless you print copies with each update you add. Also make sure you include the dates and times of events, as well as if any witnesses were present.

Follow Protocol

Once you decide to take action, you’ll want to begin by following your employer’s recommendations for reporting inappropriate activity. Usually this involves speaking to someone in the human resources department. Even if you believe the problem won’t be solved by following the protocol laid out by your employer, it’s important you do so. Also keep detailed records of your actions.

If company policy requires you to report the harassment to your superior, do so. If your superior is the person harassing you, tell this person you’d like the behavior to stop. You don’t need to do any more than that. Often, a person feels uncomfortable and as if his or her job is at risk because it’s the boss behaving inappropriately. Even if there is no one to speak to within your company, it is still possible to report the harassment.

When Should I Speak to Someone Outside of My Company?

If you report harassment to human resources and it does not stop, or the only person to whom you can report is the one harassing you, there are organizations that can help you deal with sexual harassment. Getting in touch with an attorney experienced with workplace harassment is one the best things you can do. He or she will evaluate your case and help you determine your next best step.

Nobody should ever feel threatened in the workplace and nobody should lose their job because of he or she is a victim of harassment. If you are facing sexual harassment in the workplace, we can help. Contact Borrelli & Associates, P.L.L.C. to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.