Workplace harassment takes many forms, including bullying and sexual harassment. Confronting the problem directly and providing specific examples can help stop it. Not responding and keeping notes can also help. If the harassment continues, report it to a superior or HR. If necessary, transfer or find a new job. Safety and health should never be jeopardized.
Workplace harassment can take many forms. Bullying and sexual harassment are two of the most common types of workplace harassment, but even something as simple as a person always taking credit for someone else’s work or ideas can be a form of harassment. One of the best tips for dealing with workplace harassment is to face the problem head on.
Often, someone who is harassing others in the workplace is doing it because they think they can get away with it. When confronted in a calm but assertive manner, there is a chance that the harassment will stop. It is important when confronting someone to be able to provide examples of specific instances where harassment has occurred, as well as the personal impact it has had. It usually doesn’t work without specific examples, because the person doing the harassing may not recognize that there is a problem.
Another tip for dealing with workplace harassment is to simply not respond. A person may constantly make jokes at other people’s expense because he enjoys seeing them squirm or because he enjoys making other people laugh. If other people don’t recognize the joke or bullying, the person may become discouraged and stop. Refusing to get involved with someone also helps prevent situations from escalating. Also, make sure managers are always clear about who is doing the work.
Obviously, not all instances of workplace harassment can be dealt with individually. If the harassment continues, start taking notes of each instance and take them to a superior or someone in the human resources department. Some companies also offer anonymous phone numbers that employees can call to report sexual harassment without fear of repercussions. Once a manager is informed of the situation, he or she should meet with the employee to give a verbal warning and discuss areas where changes need to be made. If the harassment does not stop, disciplinary action should follow, followed by termination of employment, although this is not always possible.
If all the ways to deal with harassment have been explored, unfortunately the only way to deal with it may be to transfer to another department or look for another job altogether. Constant harassment and distress can be detrimental to mental and physical health. Furthermore, if at any time someone feels physically threatened due to harassment in the workplace, it is perfectly acceptable to call the authorities. Safety and health must never be jeopardized by harassment in the workplace.
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