All employees should have an idea about what to do if they feel they have been harassed. Here is something to consider for your policy manual; it is also suitable for posting on bulletin boards and for use in any harassment training seminar.
What You Should Know
Q. There seem to be so many definitions for harassment How do I know if I have been harassed, with all of these definitions?
A. If something has made you feel uncomfortable, tell your supervisor or report it to someone in the Human Resources department. This not only surfaces the issue so we can deal with it, but it also allows for prompt resolution if there is an issue.
Q. Is there a one best way to stop harassment?
A. Yes. Tell the person to stop. Explain that his or her behavior is unacceptable to you. If this does not work, report the activity to your supervisor or to Human Resources.
A. Our procedure is as follows:
Report the incident to your supervisor. If this person is unavailable, report to his or her supervisor.
Report the incident to Human Resources if the alleged harasser is your supervisor or if you are uncomfortable going to him or her.
Report the incident to anyone serving in a supervisory capacity, if you are comfortable with that person.
Q. What actions can I expect the company to take concerning my report?
A. The company is obligated by law to investigate your complaint. We will thoroughly and immediately look into the matter.
Q. Will I he informed of any action taken against the person harassing me?
A. Yes. Both you and the charging party will be informed.
Q. What if I don't want the harasser terminated?
A. The company will consider your feelings, but we will determine the correct course of action based on the nature of the event and its impact on you, your co-workers, and the company.
Q. Is it okay to date co-workers, given the issue of harassment?
A. The company does not want to be to intrusive into the private lives of its employees, but dating co-workers is discouraged and if you do date, you must keep your working relationship strictly professional. We discourage dating because if the relationship ends, it can be a problem later on.
Q. Can I file my complaint outside of the company?
A. Yes. Agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) are available to hear your complaint. However, we would like the chance to deal with the issue first. Oftentimes we can remedy most internal problems.
Q. What if a co-worker is harassed? Should I report it?
A. What you might consider as harassment another might not. Ask the co-worker to come forward if they have any concerns. We want to resolve any questionable issues as early as possible.
Q. What if I report harassment and I am made to feel uncomfortable as a result?
A. Anyone who retaliates against you for filing a charge of harassment is subject to discipline up to and including termination. If you feel you are experiencing retaliation, report it to your supervisor immediately.