Sexual harassment is a problem that both men and women face in the workplace. While someone might find it flattering to have someone ask them out or make a pass at them once, continuing to do so after being refused constitutes a real problem.
In a work environment, everyone has the right to work comfortably. They have a right not to worry about sexual advances from others or about being harassed. If they have refused someone’s advances and continue to be subjected to harassment, then it’s time to take a step toward finding a solution.
How can you deal with sexual advances in the workplace?
One of the most important things you can do if you’ve been approached is to be clear about how you feel about it. If the other person has politely asked you on a date, you can simply say no. If they continue to bother you, tell them that it’s harassment and ask them to stop.
You can reach out to the human resources team or your supervisor, management or employer for further assistance if they do not stop.
What happens if the harassment still doesn’t stop?
If you are still struggling with harassment after that, then it may be time to go a step further. Your attorney can talk to you about filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and seeking assistance from your human resources department. If this doesn’t help, then it may be appropriate for you to file a lawsuit against your employer.
Your rights are important, and you should be protected against unwanted sexual advances. Your attorney can step in to help in many situations, so don’t be afraid to reach out.