Sexual harassment is a major challenge the workforce across America faces. This problem can have negative and lasting impact on the culture of your business. Everyone in your company can be affected by sexual harassment, from employees to the HR department to the business owner. The negative impacts not only affect your workforce, it can lead to legal consequences too. Sexual harassment should not be taken lightly and needs to be addressed right away to avoid lasting negative impacts.
It is essential that you be on the lookout for sexual harassment around your business, especially as a business owner. Action is required right away to help mitigate the situation and set an example to repair any damage that has been done to employee moral or security. Our
Lake of the Ozarks attorney can help your business deal with a sexual harassment issue, should one arise within your workplace. It's important to create a safe and healthy environment for your employees and customers. A
sexual harassment attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks can help if you experience a situation like this within your company.
What is Sexual Harassment?
Harassment in the workplace or other professional social setting that involves the making of unwanted sexual advances or obscene remarks is known as sexual harassment. There are several different forms of sexual harassment and can occur in a variety of situations. Sexual harassment is illegal and punishable by law, therefore, it's important for businesses to be aware of any harassment situation that is going on in the workplace. Women and men of all ages can be subject to sexual harassment advances. Not all sexual harassment involves physical contact - anytime a supervisor or employee is making another employee free uncomfortable in a sexual nature, sexual harassment is present. It's a good idea to train your employees to easily identify this type of harassment and let them know the company's policy on such acts. Swift action is required, should your business have a case of sexual harassment.
Types of Sexual Harassment:
Two primary forms of sexual harassment in the workplace are hostile work environment and quid pro quo. When an individual is made to feel uncomfortable in the workplace, it is known as a hostile work environment. This type of harassment does not have to involved any physical contact, although sometimes it does. Sexual or offensive jokes, images, and/or conversations can all be found under the hostile work environment category of sexual harassment. A quid pro quo category stems from a situation wherein the decision to hire, promote, or fire an individual is based upon their willingness to perform sexual favors or submit to sexual advances. Both types of sexual harassment are illegal, but are unfortunately common in the workforce today.
Identifying Sexual Harassment:
This type of harassment can take on a variety of different forms. Below are common examples of ways it can present itself in the workplace:
- Using pet names or inappropriate terms when referring to a coworker or employee.
- Making inappropriate noises (whistling, cat-calling, etc.).
- Giving a shoulder or neck massage to another individual in the office.
- Speaking provocatively or insultingly about someone's appearance.
- Touching someone inappropriately.
- Requesting sexual favors.
- Discussing sex or sexual acts with a coworker.
- Showing photographs or sexual objects to a fellow employee.
- Kissing, hugging, pinching, or grabbing another person in the workplace.
- Threatening someone's position within the company if they refuse sexual advances.
It's important to address a sexual harassment right away. If you notice any of the above signs or behaviors talk with your supervisor, Human Resources department, and/or attorney as soon as possible.
Gibbons Law Firm is here to help! Our legal professional can help defend your sexual harassment case and present your side of the situation. For more information about our
legal services at the Lake of the Ozarks, give our law firm a call at 573-348-2211 and remember your first consultation is always FREE!
Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.
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Gibbons Law Firm
2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
(573) 348-2211
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