Harassment: A Workplace Menace
By Turning Point HCM
https://www.turningpointhcm.com/
Sexual harassment has been getting so much attention lately with stories of very bad behavior from some high-profile and “powerful” people. Almost all employers have seen these stories, many employees have been talking about these stories at the water cooler and on lunch breaks.
With all of this high-profile attention given to this topic, is it safe to assume that the problem is under reported in “mom and pop” businesses through out the country?
We believe so, even with the spotlight on sexual harassment. In many businesses sexual harassment is not completely understood concept so it remains in the dark. As an example The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) task force estimates that in 2016 roughly 25%-85% of American women have experienced harassment on the job.
Even if we are talking the low end of the EEOC estimates, that is a staggering number. Imagine the impact on your employees, the culture and the cost to your business. It is incalculable the damage this workplace menace can do to everyone involved.
There are several ways to attack this problem yet in our experience the first place to start is training.
No, not the quirky video that was filmed in 1985. We have all seen those and we have all giggled at the overacting and phony scenarios.
What we have found is live training, either on-site with an instructor or in certain instances, using video conferencing. The most CRITICAL factors are the must be realistic, live and interactive.
Sexual Harassment Prevention: STAND UP.
Shining a light on sexual harassment could be one of the most effective weapons to prevent it from happening in your organization.
It seems this problem, like many other serious problems, when not addressed will worsen and become harder to remedy as it is allowed to fester over time.
Employers and employees all play a role in preventing this from happening. Think about the silliness of this: If anyone is asked, is sexual harassment bad and should it be tolerated? Of course the answer from all parties would be a resounding “NO”. I am positive the answer would be screamed so loudly that it could be heard all around the world.
With that said, making a safe work environment requires more than just good intentions and the hope of being a good person. It requires hard work and a good sound strategy and a plan to implement best practices.
The best companies have not only stated they are against but have taken steps to show a true commitment to a safe work environment for all involved.
So what are some simple steps:
1. Written Policies with clear statements on non-tolerance.
2. Written Policies of how the company will respond.
3. Written Polices of how the employees should act.
4. Education– We all think we know about sexual harassment, as we have seen it on T.V. That is not good enough and employees need to hear it from a professional.
5. Training– This should not be once every few years after an incident. It should be an on-going and constant drumbeat.
6. Communication– Almost every one has an “Open Door” policy. The purpose is for communication. However, many employees do not see the “Open Door” when it comes to this issue.