When sexual harassment starts at work, many people, especially women, are initially overcome by shock so they do not do anything about it. The combined fear and confusion is hard to process particularly when the behavior comes from a supervisor or valued coworker....
employment law
When can employers withhold severance packages?
Workers who lose their jobs often struggle to make ends meet until they find new work. Even if they qualify for unemployment benefits, what they receive may not cover their recurring expenses. Severance packages from employers can help reduce pressure on workers who...
Dealing with retaliation after reporting workplace harassment
Imagine finally getting the courage to report the harassment you experience at work. You followed the proper protocol. You told HR everything. Then suddenly, things started to change. But not in the way you expected. At first it started small. Perhaps your time-off...
Gathering evidence of workplace sexual harassment
Sexual harassment can involve unwanted touching, a hostile work environment or quid pro quo misconduct. Workers may experience harassment from co-workers, supervisors or even customers. Employers should train workers about harassment and react appropriately to...
Why don’t employees always report sexual harassment?
Many employees experience sexual harassment on the job and never report it. Others will eventually report it, but there might be a significant delay. For instance, an employee may only come forward years after the event takes place, perhaps influenced by hearing the...
Unwanted gifts from co-workers: Is it sexual harassment?
You have politely declined, hinted at your discomfort and yet the unsolicited items continue to appear on your desk, in your locker or are sent directly to you. This is not just about a single item, but about a persistent and unwelcome pattern. Unwanted gifts...
How power dynamics impact sexual harassment
Sexual harassment cases often revolve around power dynamics. In some senses, harassment may be more about one person demonstrating their power or standing over a fellow employee. For instance, if a boss is sexually harassing their secretary, it may be less about any...
The impact of social media on workplace harassment investigations
Nowadays, workplace harassment isn’t confined to office walls or breakrooms—it often extends to social media. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn have blurred the line between personal and professional interactions, creating new pathways for inappropriate...
“Jokes” can be sexual harassment
We’ve all heard it before. Someone makes an inappropriate comment. Everyone around them reacts negatively, understanding that this is something they shouldn’t have said. But that person just laughs it off and says it was “just a joke.” They didn’t mean anything wrong,...
Employers should protect workers from customer sexual harassment
Workplace sexual harassment can be disheartening and even traumatizing. In some cases, workers experience harassment from their teammates and co-workers. Other times, supervisors or even business owners are the ones who mistreat certain professionals. In such...

