Harassment in the workplace is a very serious issue. Have you ever felt intimidated or humiliated at work? The scope of harassment is broad and diverse, ranging from bullying to sexual harassment. Unwanted behavior in whatever form it takes is least of all extremely uncomfortable and in worst-case scenarios there can be traumatic consequences.
Workplace harassment for example is a type of harassment that’s particularly frustrating and traumatic. Let’s explore workplace harassment and how to defend your rights during workplace harassment.
What constitutes workplace harassment is not always quantifiable. As is explained in this article there are grey areas and nuances when it comes to workplace harassment. Here are some of the types of harassment in the workplace to watch out for:
You’re not without rights if you’re being harassed in the workplace. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces workplace rights with laws such as:
Here’s how to defend these and your other rights:
Harassment often results in he said she said type scenarios. If you can, document the harassment as proof of the infringements on your rights.
How you can keep track of harassment, depending on the type of harassment, is by doing things like taking screenshots of messages, noting the names of eyewitnesses, or jotting down the time, date, and location of the harassment. Record any instances you see of your harasser similarly tormenting others as well.
Human resources are there to investigate and resolve precisely these kinds of situations in the workplace. If you’ve tried to amicably communicate your thoughts and feelings to your harasser and the situation persists or escalates, file a report at your human resources departments soon as possible.
Your company may have a different change of command or channel of reporting such cases. Find out and follow the appropriate procedure.
Sometimes HR is more on the side of your harasser. If this is the case and your workplace’s HR mishandled the case and covered it up, report it to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This way your case will be investigated partially.
Alternatively, large municipalities and metro areas, like New York City and California have their own laws and agencies regulating workplace conduct. If you live in one of these states you may claim that state. Visit your state’s website or call to find out the proper way to file your claim.
Your best bet is to hire an experienced lawyer who specializes in employment issues. Often, issues regarding harassment in the workplace are attempted to be resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution means like mediation. Again, this process could be more beneficial to the harasser. This is why it’s recommended that you hire an attorney to represent you. A good lawyer will advise you of your legal rights and give you an idea of how to best proceed with your claim in a manner that best defends your rights.
Harassment in the workplace is unpleasant, causing traumatic feelings of humiliation, dividing the workplace, and decreasing productivity. It must be addressed properly.
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