Friday, January 24, 2014

Understanding The Actions To Take Following Sexual Harassment At Work


by Franklin Skribbit


The workplace can be an extremely productive and fulfilling environment where people work together to accomplish the goals of their company. There are many positive things that can come from collaborating on projects and tasks. However, most every workplace deals with their share of conflict. Some conflict can be positive and constructive, as it can allow people to talk through their different ideas and come to conclusions that will most benefit their teams and ultimately their companies. However, unfortunately there are some instances of negative conflict in the workplace that stymies creativity and results. Things like pride, jealousy, ego, compensation issues, personal problems, and competitive tension are just a few of the causes of negative conflict in the workplace. The cause of most conflict can often be attributed to lack of communication or employees not being able to control their emotions. Here are a few things to consider when trying to handle situations in the workplace when conflict does arise.

Such actions as inappropriate touching, even over clothing, is considered sexual assault and can be punishable under the judicial system, but it is likewise important for individuals to remember that anything, such as crude comments or suggestive language, that makes a person feel uncomfortable may be considered sexual harassment in the work place.

When a company ensures that they are doing all they can to prevent racism from entering their place of work, they will be able to protect their employees, keep their employees safe from the humiliating impacts of racism, and provide a positive work environment where businesses and individuals can succeed. But how can a company, whether big or small, ensure that they are doing all they can to prevent racism in the workplace?

Pick Your Battles

Too often, people who are being mildly sexually harassed in the work place, perhaps who are victims of repeated sexual or crude jokes or comments as an example, let the harassment slide thinking that reporting the instance will only bring on additional chiding or other negative repercussions. But the truth is that those who decide to no longer ignore the harassing acts of others will find that they can make the change necessary to finally be comfortable in their work environment.

After composing and distributing the anti-discrimination policy, a company can continue their efforts to prevent racism from entering their workplace by conducting compliance training sessions throughout the year. Every quarter, the company should use compliance training materials to present to their employees the company's policies and regulations concerning discrimination.

It would be unwise not to expect conflict to occur in the workplace. With many different personalities, responsibilities, personal situations, levels of pay, etc. there are bound to be instances where conflict happens. The key is to be able to recognize the symptoms of conflict early and resolve it quickly before too much damage is done. Be A Great Listener

All employees should be aware however that some actions or dialog may not be considered sexual harassment by either the state and federal law or the company. Each employee should be armed with knowledge as to what constitutes sexual harassment in their company and in their state by attending and participating in sexual harassment seminars regularly.

In addition to hiring the right people who are willing to work together no matter what the race or creed of their coworkers, a company can promote a racism free work environment by promoting based on performance alone. These are just a few ways in which companies can take a proactive step in preventing racism from entering their workplace.




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