Sexual harassment can be a big problem. It can make women (and men) uncomfortable at work. In fact, there are times when a person feels forced to leave a job that they love because of harassment.
The worst part is that harassment often starts as jokes that might be funny yet offensive. If you don’t do anything, it can turn into co-workers who ask you forcefully if you want to date. It can continue to unwanted advances and much more.
Most people start to miss work because they are uncomfortable. However, as harassment continues, many end up quitting because they are so uncomfortable being there.
If you are being harassed, you don’t have to sit back and take it. Though you might want to seek the help of an experienced lawyer, there are some things that you should do first.
Here are some steps that you should take before you hire a lawyer for sexual harassment.
You need to speak up. Many people don’t realize that they are harassing someone until it is pointed out to them. They may be making a joke, not realizing how much it is affecting you. You may be able to resolve your problem just by talking to the person who is making you uncomfortable.
If that doesn’t work, find out what the procedure is for harassment at your work. Most companies have a procedure that needs to be followed so it is important that you take the proper steps when getting help. If they don’t have any, talk to your supervisor to figure out how to handle the problem.
Don’t be afraid to file your complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This agency (or a similar one) will be able to help you through this process. They will do their own investigation and try to work with both sides to come up with a fair settlement. If you do meet with a lawyer, make sure that you have already gone through this channel. If not, you will have to before a lawyer represents you.
Before you seek the help of a lawyer, it is important that you document everything. You are going to want to write down everything that is happening to you. It also helps to write down what procedure you have followed when dealing with the company that you work for. If you have been talking to the person responsible and your supervisor, it is important to make notes of what is being said. This will help your case if it ends up going to trial.
Sexual harassment shouldn’t be tolerated. Most of the time, you may be able to talk to the person who is bothering you. That may be enough to stop the harassment. If not, you will need to follow protocol or talk to your supervisor if there is none. If that is not getting you anywhere, don’t hesitate to file a complaint. They will work with both parties to come up with a settlement that works for everyone.
While you are going through this, you should also be keeping detailed notes of what is going on. Not only should you make notes of the harassment, but you also need to keep track of who you are talking to about it and what is happening. If a lawyer needs to get involved, you are already on your way to building a case.
If you need a lawyer because of how you are being treated at your place of employment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be glad to discuss your case with you and figure out how you want to move forward.
