Take care of your employees, and they will take care of your business. It’s as simple as that.

That Richard Branson quote is a regular in social media office groups. Although most organizations stick to it (or at least try to), there are some who violate it. The horrible part is that most of the time, it’s done intentionally.

Conversations about workplace harassment are still considered taboo. Most of the time, it’s brushed off as a personality trait or one of the side effects of being part of the hustle culture. But the sad truth is that workplace harassment is a real issue.

Reputable lawyers, like employment lawyers at Haeggquist & Eck, strive to not just protect the rights of the victims but also ensure that the perpetrator receives just punishment.

It is important to keep an eye out for the warning signs of harassment. Given below are a few types of harassment that an employee may be a victim of.

• Verbal Harassment: Often happens in the form of rude remarks and unreasonable criticism, whether about one’s work or themselves. Other forms include cracking unwanted jokes, using slurs, and throwing insults regularly.
• Psychological Harassment: This type of harassment is harder to identify, but the effects are equally damaging. Common forms of psychological harassment include:
  • Taking credit for your achievements;
  • Excluding you on purpose;
  • Setting unreasonable deadlines;
  • Asking you to perform demeaning tasks that are outside your job role;
  • Opposing everything you say for no reason;
  • Spreading false rumors; and
  • Public humiliation.
• Cyberbullying: People tend to be more open on the internet, particularly under the cloak of anonymity. This gives them the opportunity to harass others, in this case, their employees, by:
  • Mocking them in public;
  • Making false allegations; and
  • Creating alternate accounts to stalk them.
• Physical Harassment: Physical harassment needn’t necessarily be violent behavior like punching, kicking, or shoving someone forcefully. It also includes:
  • Touching an employee’s clothes, hair, face, or skin without consent;
  • Threatening physical gestures; and
  • Invasion of personal space.
• Sexual Harassment: This is among the more serious types of harassment. They generally happen in the form of:
  • Inappropriate touches;
  • Sharing pornography;
  • Making sexual jokes; and
  • Requesting sexual favors in return for reduced workload or promotions.

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With that out of the way, let’s look at some of the things you must do if you’re a victim of workplace harassment.

1. Document instances

You’ll need evidence to prove that you’ve been harassed. This can be in the form of an email or a message from the perpetrator.

Also, try to gather performance reviews or the awards, memos, or letters you’ve received during your time at the company. Once you get them, don’t forget to take multiple copies for safekeeping.

2. Stand up for yourself

Most perpetrators pile on the misery due to the victim’s silence. Staying mum isn’t going to help.

Speak up against the perpetrator directly. Talk about how their behavior is affecting you in an assertive and professional way. Being called out often deters people from repeating their behavior.

3. Share your experience

You should gather as many allies as possible, whether it is at the workplace or outside of it. Talk with your loved ones for support. Ask your colleagues whether they or anyone they know has had a similar experience. This will also come in handy when you’re looking for witnesses or those who have had similar experiences.

4. File a formal complaint

Exposure usually makes some perpetrators stop their behavior or move to a different target. But if the harassment persists, file a formal complaint. The complaint can be made to the HR department or to some higher body if the perpetrator happens to be in HR themselves. Also, reach out to the EEOC if required.

Don’t let your emotions take over. Be as calm as possible and maintain professionalism if you’re being questioned. Offer full cooperation in the investigation process while concentrating on your work. Get everything in writing so that you can check back in the future when required.

5. Hire a lawyer

This is for cases where push comes to shove. If you feel all your complaints and requests are falling on deaf ears, it’s time to reach out to a lawyer. Contact a local employment lawyer to find out what your options are.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing harassment at the workplace can be harrowing. The psychological consequences of workplace harassment are horrible.

Victims, however, must find the courage to stand up to the perpetrators and fight for their rights. A lawyer will be of great use in this battle. They will provide the legal support the victims need to bring the perpetrators to justice.  If they get convicted, they will have a criminal record so the chances of committing a crime will be very less.

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Guest Writer