5 Facts about Sexual Harassment Every Professional Woman Should Know

Below are the 5 facts every professional should know about sexual harassment in the workplace:

1. Sexual harassment violates the law when you submit to sexual demands to keep your job or when behavior creates an intimidating, hostile and offensive working environment. If you find yourself in any of these situations you have the right to file a complaint because it is violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
2. Act immediately and speak directly to the person at the time harassment occurs. Make it extremely clear that you are not interested and do not like to be touched while talking. Perhaps the action was not intentional? Either way, if it bothered you speak up.
3. If it persists keep a diary of what is happening with dates, times and places. Another option is to keep your phone with a recorder near by to record any ongoing instances. Record as much evidence as you can, for it can help you if the person does not stop.
4. Don’t be afraid to talk about it. Often times the same people are repeat-offenders.  Your manager may be very aware of this type of behavior from this person.
5. Retaliation is illegal so if you are transferred to a lower-paying job, passed over for promotion or let go; you can report this to an enforcement agency such as The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Have you ever dealt with sexual harassment at work?  How did you handle it?

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