When you go to work, you have the right to do your job without fear of mistreatment of any kind. If you experience harassment, you know that you could have the right to speak out about what you are going through, but you may not be certain what you should do next. It could be important for you to learn what you can do to protect your interests and rights in the event you are a victim of harassment.
Harassment includes a variety of behaviors that can include everything from inappropriate comments to unwanted physical contact. If this takes place while you are on the job, there are things you can do that will allow you to both make the unacceptable treatment stop and seek to hold the responsible parties accountable. It may be helpful for you to learn about what behaviors count as harassment and what you can do to ensure that you no longer have to endure it.
Steps you can take as a victim
The first step is determining that you are a victim. One you have established that the treatment you are experiencing is harassment, you can take definitive action to shield your interests. Some of the steps you can take include:
- If you are comfortable and it is safe to do so, you can demand the offender to stop his or her behavior.
- Check on your employer’s anti-harassment policy and follow the procedure.
- Talk with a supervisor about what you are experiencing.
You may consider filing a claim with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. You have a limited amount of time to pursue this course of action, and you will find it beneficial to learn about your options as soon as possible. The law provides you the opportunity for recourse, and it also provides you protection against retaliation for seeking justice after harassment.
Know your rights and options
If you are a victim of harassment, you will want to move quickly to shield your interests and protect yourself from future abuse. There are steps you can take that will allow you to not only hold your North Carolina employer or liable party accountable, but also to seek appropriate compensation for what you experienced. While this cannot reverse your emotional and mental strain, it may allow you to pick up the pieces and move forward.