Sexual harassment in the workplace

Companies around the world have been mandating their employees to go through sexual harassment training for several years, and since a new crop of employees has entered the workforce recently as college graduates, a quick reminder course might be advantageous to all employees about this topic.{{more}}

As more international companies venture into the Caribbean and begin operating in the region, it is doubly important that we understand the policies and procedures they bring with them.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is most often an unwelcome sexual advance, a request for sexual favors, or an unsolicited and unappreciated type of physical contact; however, more subtle forms of sexual harassment include offensive verbal statements that are of a sexual nature and the display of objects or pictures that are sexually suggestive. It is important to remember, too, that both men and women can be offenders or victims of sexual harassment.

What should I do if I think I’ve been sexually harassed?

Let the person know, immediately, that their behavior is not welcomed. If he or she persists, report the incident to a supervisor as soon as you can. Documentation of the incident will be essential to taking action, so be sure to keep a personal record in the event you need legal representation.

What should I do if my supervisor is the offender?

Report the incident to your human resources office, and report it immediately. If you do not have a human resources department go to the person in charge of handling employee complaints.

Is flirting a form of sexual harassment?

Actions can only be classified as sexual harassment if one party considers the behavior unwanted and objectionable. Still, as a general rule, its best to avoid flirtatious behavior on the job.

How do I know if the person does not like my behavior?

You can always ask, or you can invite the person to let you know verbally or with her or his body language. If you are told to stop or if you are given a resounding “No,” you must accept it, even if you don’t want to or think that’s what the person means. “No” means “no.”

Can sexual harassment take place only between persons of the opposite sex?

No. Sexual harassment can also occur between a female and a female or between a male and a male.

Karen Hinds President/CEO –
Workplace Success Group,
Toll Free: 1-877-902-2775;
Tel: 1-203-757-4103
Karen@WorkplaceSuccess.com
www.WorkplaceSuccess.com
Creator of The Workplace Success Program (TM)