Who
Fact or Myth: Women are pretty much the only victims of sexual harassment.
Myth! Though women are the primary target, men and LGBTQ members are witnessing it more than ever.
What is sexual harassment?
Any unwanted remarks, gestures, physical contact, texts/calls/emails in the workplace.
Where can it happen?
Bathrooms, conference rooms, cubicles, closets, or even parking lots. As long as it happens on company property, you are eligible to file a complaint.
When does it usually happen?
It mostly occurs around closing time, since people seem to be more relaxed and let their guard down, however, it can happen anytime.
How should someone experiencing sexual harassment handle the situation?
Notify Human Resources and demand to file a complaint. Do not take no for an answer! In the meantime, stay away from the perpetrator. Your boss should help you make arrangements to relocate your desk and accommodate your comfort.
Who harasses who?
Anyone harasses anyone! Any combination you can think of. Women to men, men to women, men to men, women to women, men to LGBTQ individuals, LGBTQ individuals to men, women to LGBTQ individuals, LGBTQ individuals to women.
What should you do if your company tells you to just "Wait and see if it keeps happening, then you can file a complaint."
Contact a lawyer. If you request to file a complaint you cannot be denied or silenced. Many Human Resource reps. will try and silence you if it seems to not be very threatening.
Where can you find comfort after witnessing sexual harassment?
Many people are very traumatized after an act of sexual harassment. Your employment should have protocols to cover your counseling sessions following an event.
When is it too soon to report it?
Never. You should absolutely report it as soon as it happens. Protect yourself and refuse to be taken advantage of.
How does harassment occur?
Inappropriate texts, emails, gestures, remarks, touching, or even something as simple as staring.
Who should you turn to if you are a victim or harassment?
First turn to Human Resources. They have legal obligation to assist you. However, they try and silence you if they can in order to protect the image of the company. Many times the boss is also on board with this tactic. Make sure to find a good lawyer if you are planning on initiating serious action.
Fact or myth: Most companies have very open employee contracts and encourage you to speak up if there is an incident.
Myth. Many companies have developed strategic ways to word their contracts to make employees feel like they can't speak up about events like sexual harassment or other inner company issues.
Where should you NOT turn to complain about sexual harassment?
Social media. Company contracts enforce that employees do not post about damaging or sensitive company information. This could ruin your case so it is important to follow all the rules yourself.
When is it too late to speak up about an incident?
It's never too late. Use your voice and come forward. Late is better than never.
How do you act when someone is harassing you?
Let them know that they are making you uncomfortable, some people are actually interested in receiving sexual gestures from others. If you are not one of these people, make it known.