3 ways you can deal with workplace harassment

It’s unfortunate to think that harassment in the workplace is still a common occurrence. It tends to be in the form of physical and verbal abuse related to race, gender, religion or sex and whilst it can be considered inappropriate, it is also an unlawful act in the form of discrimination and something that should be taken seriously in the workplace. There are many ways that harassment can occur. Below are some, but not all, examples:

– Name calling

– Offensive jokes

– Physical assault

Intimidation

What’s concerning is that studies have suggested that the majority of employees choose not to report it and prefer to deal with the situation themselves. However, what are the correct steps to take to deal with harassment?

Report it

Regardless of whether you’re too scared to tell someone or prefer to deal with the matter yourself, your first train of thought should be to report the matter. Employers are legally responsible for any actions that take place in the workplace, including harassment. Inform your supervisor or HR representative so they can take steps to deal with the matter internally. You can this privately or through a written request and then keep a record of matters that happens after it.

Keep a record

If you’re being harassed by a colleague or someone within the organisation, the offender may likely make accusations against you to defend themselves. To help yourself in such a situation, keep records of your performance and general actions that you do in the workplace. Keep documents and any achievements that have been presented to you so you can showcase what you’ve been doing in your role. To remain extra safe, keep the records in a safe place and away from work rather than in the workplace where it could be easily found.

Ask for support

Dealing with sexual harassment can be rather stressful and difficult to deal with. Therefore, don’t be afraid to get support, whether it be from friends or family, or professional help through mediation solicitors Manchester based if you wish to take matters further. Talking with others about the situation can help to gain guidance on how to deal with it and provide you with options you may have not been aware of. 

Similarly, you should be there for someone if the shoe is on the other foot. Being a witness of harassment can be extremely important to helping the matter stop, so whether it’s providing guidance to the victim or providing details of your own dispute resolution solicitor, show the colleague that you’re there from in their need of support.

Harassment is a serious problem and something that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Rather than hiding away and dealing with your problems, express your concerns and let it be known by taking the steps above to deal with the matter.