Tips on Sexual Harassment

Sexual Harassment can be a very big problem in the workplace. Most of the time, sexual harassment usually happens to women more than it happens to men, but it does happen to both genders. Whether it's a crude comment or being touched in the wrong manner, no one should have to deal with this issue. In this article, I want to give you some tips on how you can deal with sexual harassment and some of the things you can do to prevent it.

Sexual Harassment Defined

Before I get into the tips on how to handle sexual harassment, first let's define exactly what it is. The legal definition of sexual harassment is "unwelcome verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is severe or pervasive and affects working conditions or creates a hostile work environment." Meaning if someone touches, looks or says something to you in a sexual way, that is sexual harassment. Harassment usually takes place in the work place and some of the very most vulnerable places are restaurants and the bar areas but are not restricted to only these areas. Most individuals don't realize it, but if you and buddy are talking about something sexual and it offends the some else that is actually listening, then that is also considered sexual harassment and can be reported also.

Tips On Dealing With Sexual Harassment

If you feel like you are in the position of harassment, here are some tips you can follow. First thing you need to do if you are being sexual harassed is to talk to the person that is committing the offense. It is important that you do not confront this person in front of every body. Pull this person to the side where no one else can here. Most of the time if you let some the person who is committing the offense know, they will stop for fear of losing their job or something more sever happening. If you have tried to talk to the person and the harassment still continues, then it is time to tell a supervisor. Your supervisor knows the proper channels to go through when it comes to sexual harassment. If the supervisor does nothing and the activity still continues, then it is time to go over your supervisors head. This could mean that you might have to you their supervisor or actually call the corporate office. If you have to go to this step, nine times out of ten the situation will get taken care of.

Every one deserves a stress free work place and no one should have to deal with sexual harassment. If you feel that you are in this particular situation, then follow the tips outlined above.