By definition, sexual harassment is any unwanted sexual behaviour that makes someone feel upset, scared, offended or humiliated, or is meant to make them feel that way. Sexual harassment is a type of sexual violence – the phrase we use to describe any sexual activity or act that happened without consent.
Sexual harassment is not uncommon in the workplace. It affects both genders but women are major victims. The workplace can be dreadful when sexual harassment is prominent. Females who are sexually harassed by their male bosses or colleagues usually throw in the towel and resign for the safety of their emotional and physical well-being.
The following are 5 tips below on how to deal with sexual harassment from a boss or male colleagues at work:
1. Make your displeasures known
It is not all jokes and conversations that are funny and tolerable. It would help if you drew boundaries. Once this has been crossed, be quick to register your displeasure. A simple “please, that wasn’t funny” or as serious as “you are making me feel very uncomfortable right now, please stop it” would be quick to show your grievances. Treat the situation seriously and the other person will take you seriously.
2. Keep records
Be prepared to report your boss or male colleague sexually harassing you. Keep a record of all their wrongdoings. Keep track of all the indecent text messages and emails. Try and use your phone recorder to record nasty discussions. You have your evidence to use against the boss or male colleague sexually harassing you.
3. Report it
If you’re truly feeling harassed, after documenting the situation, report it immediately. Most times female employees who are in this predicament supposedly wait for some time before officially reporting it. A problem shared is half solved. If you’re being harassed by a boss, talk to HR, as they are trained to deal with such matters with discreetness and professionalism.
4. Ignore the small stuff
You spend a more significant percentage of time at work, it is normal to be joking around and, yes, even a bit of teasing in the workplace. It is rare for a man to give another man a hard time with his clothes, habits, or even work. But that is how some men often relate with ladies, though it is not personal.
Men don’t cry for help or scream ‘rape’; they either ignore it or give it back immediately. As a lady, learn to do the same. And if you get good and clever at this, you might be surprised at the respect you gain, the privacy and space you get.
5. Have a plan B
If matters get worse, you should consider leaving your job but that should be your last resort. But before you make that move, dust your CV and start looking for another job. Leaving your job without a plan B would render you powerless. So think about it first before resigning from your job.