3 Signs of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace That Can’t Be Ignored

While most workplaces are safe, professional areas for employees, it’s not impossible for issues to arise.

In fact, managing the mental health of workers is one of the most important obligations that business owners have.

On occasion, though, sexual harassment takes place at these locations, and there are signs that simply can’t be ignored. 

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about the signs of sexual harassment you need to watch out for.

1. Unwanted Touching

This is one of the most common forms of sexual harassment in the workplace and happens far too often. It also comes in many different forms.

Sometimes, the touching is overt, such as when a superior places his hand on the knee or leg of a female employee. Other times, the incident isn’t as obvious.

For example, a male coworker may be notorious for ‘accidentally’ making contact with a female employee while walking past them. He may also go out of his way to ensure that he’s physically near them while in passing.

2. Inappropriate Comments

Jokes and rude behavior are also commonly experienced in places of employment. These could include:

• Speech with blatant sexual innuendo
• Inappropriate compliments (such as, “Your pants sure do fit you nicely”)
• Overt flirting

But, the situation isn’t always obvious when it occurs.

For instance, let’s assume a male and female coworker are working late together. As they’re finishing up for the night, the male offers to walk the female worker to her car.

She explains she’s parked right outside and doesn’t need an escort, but he insists. After a second refusal, he says, “It just isn’t right for a pretty girl like you to go home alone.”

Afterward, she quickly leaves the office. On her drive home, she then realizes the implication behind what her coworker stated.

3. Gender Bias

If employees are given harsher punishments or fewer privileges based on their sex, then there is prevalent gender bias at the company.

A common scenario might be a group of male employees consistently leaving the office early without any form of punishment. When a female asks to do the same, though, she is denied and told to not ask again in the future.

Other forms include only taking employees of one gender out to lunch, organizing teams made up of only one gender, etc.

You can visit this resource to learn more about these types of cases. 

Dealing With the Signs of Sexual Harassment Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be. 

With the above information about recognizing the signs of sexual harassment in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward taking the appropriate level of action.

Want to learn more lifestyle tips that can help you out in the future? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.