Sexual harassment can come up in the workplace in different ways. The most common form is physical harassment, and this can be in the form of violence to individuals or property. Threatening behavior is also considered a form of physical harassment.
Sexual assault can also be in the form of bullying. For example, you may get unwanted remarks, insults, and derogatory statements. Other common forms of sexual harassment are psychological, discriminatory, and cyberbullying.
If you have been a victim of sexual harassment, you need to take steps to ensure that you are compensated fairly. We’ll cover some tips to help you bring up the subject of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Document the Sexual Harassment Case
Before you start to talk about sexual harassment in the workplace, you should consider taking steps to document the cases. A log of these details will be essential when the time to report it comes. Make sure you record details like the date, time, and place where the incident took place.
Also, take note of who was involved, what was said, and who the witnesses were. You should note that sexual harassment may hinder your ability to perform optimally in your job, and there shouldn’t be any doubts that the issue is preventing you from working well.
Check Your Company’s Policy on Reporting Sexual Harassment
Companies have different policies on the reporting of sexual harassment, and you should check them whenever you need to bring up sexual harassment. Depending on the policy, you may have to report to your supervisor, the aggressor’s supervisor, human resources, or someone who is higher in command. Larger organizations may need you to fill out an online form or use an employee hotline.
File a Claim a with the EEOC
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or EEOC can also help you fight sexual harassment cases. You will actually have to report the issue to this commission before you file a case under federal law.
When filing a case with the EEOC, you can use the online public portal to first submit a query. The query will allow the agency to determine whether they are the right ones to deal with your case. You will then be able to schedule an in-person meeting with the agency, and this can be arranged online. Another option is to get the process started with a telephone appointment.
Hire a Lawyer
When handling sexual harassment cases, you may need the help of a lawyer. You will usually be required to file a lawsuit within 90 days of receiving the right to sue letter.
Conclusion
While it is extremely important to confront sexual harassment issues, you should remember that they aren’t the easiest cases to deal with. If, for any reason, you don’t feel comfortable following through with the lawsuit, you can consider asking for reassignment or quitting the job. Even if you choose to avoid the lawsuit, it is still important to report the matter to the authorities in your company. Otherwise, the abuse may keep going, and the company won’t be liable as they were not aware of the issue.
