Have you been a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace in the past? Does this behavior continue? Rather than continue to deal with this, hoping the problem goes away, it would be in your best interest to speak up.
However, knowing how, and to who, to report harassment, is never easy. Reporting sexual harassment can be even more difficult when the harassment comes from a manager, or the person you would report it to.
Reporting Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Here are a few tips to follow as you report sexual harassment in the workplace:
- Don’t delay. You should report the behavior as soon as possible, as any delay has the potential to make the situation worse. Some workplaces have policies in place for reporting things like this. Even if they don’t, it is still a good idea to notify your employer. This gives them the opportunity to handle the situation.
- Meet face to face with the person you are reporting the behavior to. This could be anybody from a supervisor to a human resources director. It doesn’t matter who you are discussing the situation with, it is best to do so in person. Leave the telephone and email for other, less important conversations.
- Get an idea of what is going to happen next. It is one thing to report sexual harassment. It is another thing entirely to have your company put an end to this. What steps are they going to take next?
- Bring documentation of the claims. When reporting the sexual harassment, human resources, or your supervisor, is likely to ask you for proof. While this is not required, it is useful if you have it. Bring any emails, text messages, or other types of proof that you have against the offender. It can also be helpful to keep a journal of incidents.
If you don’t get the answers you are looking for or if you are retaliated against for reporting sexual harassment, you may need to speak with a qualified legal team.
Notify the EEOC of the Sexual Harassment
If notifying your employer of the sexual harassment is unsuccessful, the next step is to notify the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EOOC is responsible for pursuing harassment. While a legal claim may be a possibility, you must first report the sexual harassment to the EEOC.
The EEOC could choose to sue on your behalf. However, this is unlikely, and if they believe there is a case following an investigation, then they will likely issue a right to sue. From here, you can work with a lawyer to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit. Working with a lawyer can be beneficial to your case as you navigate these requirements.
Work With a Lawyer Today
Employees should never have to deal with sexual harassment, or any other type of harassment, in the workplace. Figuring out how to deal with this type of situation in the workplace can be difficult, while you balance your comfort with the need for income. We understand these challenges and fight to find justice and peace for our clients.