Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious offense. It affects productivity, motivation, and morale, and it is illegal. Learn how to report sexual harassment while protecting your coworkers and your workplace.
What is Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission defines sexual harassment to include several actions that create a hostile or offensive work environment.
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Requests for sexual favors
- Verbal or physical actions that are sexual in nature
- Offensive remarks about a person's gender
Harassment can happen frequently or only once. The perpetrator can be any gender and hold any job title. Customers, clients, and contractors can be either victims or perpetrators.
Why Report Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
All sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful whether it occurs during a job interview, is perpetrated by an executive or a customer, or happens a single time. It is important to report incidents so your employer can investigate and take appropriate action.
For information about insurance options that may relate to workplace claims, see Sexual Harassment Insurance.
How to Report Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
If you are the victim of sexual harassment or you observe it, you may feel embarrassed or worried about repercussions. You have the right and responsibility to report illegal conduct; the following steps help ensure the report can be investigated.
Review your employee handbook. It includes the specific protocols on how to report sexual harassment at your company.
Report to the right person. Usually you should report sexual harassment to your supervisor or Human Resources manager, but if that person is involved, find a neutral manager or another supervisor and report the incident in person.
Share details.
- Dates of the harassment
- Exactly what happened during the incident(s)
- Documents that support your account
- Witnesses to the incidents
Put your report in writing. Even if you meet with a manager, write your report and send it via email. Ask Human Resources to file a copy in your personnel file and keep a personal copy for your records.
Follow up. Your employer must investigate your complaint and may include you in the investigation. Share any additional details you remember and document those additions.
Employers sometimes maintain policies and coverage to address claims and legal defense; for more on defense-related options, see Sexual Harassment Defense Coverage (EPLI).
Take reported incidents seriously and use these steps to protect yourself, your coworkers, and your workplace culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should I report sexual harassment to at work?
Start with your supervisor or Human Resources unless they are involved; if so, report to a neutral manager or another designated contact in your company.
What details should I include in a harassment report?
Include dates, a clear description of what happened, any supporting documents, and names of witnesses to help an effective investigation.
Will my employer investigate if I report?
Yes, employers are generally required to investigate harassment complaints and take appropriate corrective action when needed.
Can I keep a copy of my report?
Yes, you should keep a personal copy of any written report or correspondence you send or receive about the complaint.