by Akhilesh Mittal

Created on: March 18, 2009   Last Updated: June 22, 2009

We spend the majority of our day at work and want it to be a place that is conducive and friendly, a place where we can look forward to returning the next day. Today's economy is in a downward spiral, jobs are becoming scare and getting them is becoming more competitive. The moral values are also taking a hit along side the economy and people are willing to sacrifice even more to get the pay check going. We ensure our personal integrity, but there are always the kind of people in the work place who want to take advantage of it. One kind of advantage could be in terms of seeking personal favors and making inappropriate advances.

With this background and knowing that inappropriate advances are in fact made at workplaces, we can either act like an Ostrich with our heads buried deep in the sand and be in denial or be prepared if faced this harsh reality ourselves. Inappropraite advance is considered as sexual harrasment and is not only against women, but it can be against men as well.

To be prepared for an incident requires knowldge, information. It is to know the options that are available. Some of the choices available to us are,

(1) Sexual harrassment is against the law

All countries have laws in place do deal with sexual harrassment at the work place. Be aware of the law of the land as it is there to help you.

(2) Evidence is important

It is important to have evidence. If you find yourself in such a situation, try to keep record of all the events and if there are explicit emails or conversation then keep a copy.

(3) Discuss it with your boss

If you are not interested, then you are not interested. Discuss it openly with your boss and let him know that you are not interested. If possible complete the communication in a written format as well (for your records).

(4) Discuss with HR

One of the responsibilities of the human resources department is to ensure a smooth and good working environment. If other things are not working out, discuss it with your HR department.

(5) Special anti-harrassment unit

Many of the companies also have special anti-harrassment units aimed to proactively counter sexual harrassment threat at work and otherwise. If you have such a unit at your workplace, contact them.

(6) Contact a lwayer

If you don't feel comfortable talking to anybody at work, contact a lwayer and decide on a best course of action.

It is not only in your best interest to lodge a complaint, but it is also benefial for others for you do it. If a complaint is not lodged then the incidence gets unnoticed and allows your boss to repeat his behavior in the future as well.
A complaint will act as a deterrent to make the work environment safe for others as well. It is also in your professional interest to lodge a complaint if it happens. Who knows your boss may fire you from the job and blame it on you. Such a complaint will ensure that all the facts are straight and you are not mistreated.

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