How to Handle Harassment and Bullying in the Workplace
What is the first step of handling workplace harassment?
1) If you feel comfortable doing so, tell the person who is harassing you to stop. 2) If you do not feel comfortable confronting the harasser directly, or if the behavior does not stop, follow the steps below: Check to see if your employer has an anti-harassment policy. This may be on the employer’s website.
How to Handle Harassment and Bullying in the Workplace
Bullying and harassment in the workplace can have a major impact on the morale, productivity, and success of a business. It is vital to ensure that all employees understand the importance of creating a safe and open work environment and that they know how to handle any issues that may arise. The following guidelines will help companies tackle harassment and bullying in the workplace.
Establish a Clear Anti-Harassment Policy
One of the most important steps a business can take to prevent harassment and bullying is to establish a clear policy on the matter. This policy should outline what employees can expect in terms of dealing with inappropriate behavior and the repercussions for those who break the policy. It should also ensure that managers have a clear understanding of what is and isn’t acceptable behavior as well as the steps they should take if they witness any such behavior.
Set Up a Way for Employees to Report Issues
No one should have to deal with harassment or bullying on their own. It is important for businesses to make sure that employees know they can come forward and report any issues they may experience. This could be done through an anonymous reporting system or an open channel of communication, such as a designated manager or HR contact.
Investigate All Claims
Any claim of harassment or bullying must be taken seriously and investigated right away. Companies should make sure that they have a clear understanding of the circumstances and all the relevant facts before making any judgement or taking any disciplinary action. Every claim must be treated with respect and handled professionally by a trained and impartial person.
Provide Support and Training
It is also important for companies to ensure that their employees have access to adequate support and training. This can include teaching employees about what constitutes harassment and bullying and how to handle it if it occurs. It can also include ensuring that employees know who to speak to if they need help, such as an HR representative or EAP counselor.
By taking these steps, companies can help create a safe, positive, and productive workplace for their employees. This can lead to improved job satisfaction and lower rate of absenteeism and turnover, all of which can have a positive effect on the business.
