Every employee deserves to enjoy peace of mind while at work, and their coworkers and employers should always respect them. However, if you're being sexually harassed in the workplace, it's crucial to notify someone immediately and get help from a lawyer. The following guide highlights some steps you can take to ensure your complaint is taken seriously.

What Should You Do if You're Being Harassed at Work?

1. Don't Ignore the Problem

Due to your discomfort, it may be tempting to ignore your harasser and hope that the problem will go away on its own. However, this tactic may only allow the person to continue their behavior, making it more challenging to come to work every day. As a result, it may be helpful to send an initial letter or email to the harasser asking them to stop. After you reach out to a lawyer for assistance, this note can be used as proof indicating that the behavior was unwelcome. 

2. Take Notes

Aside from sending out a letter or email, it may be helpful to create your own separate notes that document the harassment. Create a timeline of incidents and keep any letters or gifts that the harasser sent you. If you collect this information in advance, a lawyer can construct a case that proves what you've experienced. 

However, remember not to create any notes on a computer at work since you won't have private access to any files you create. It's best to make sure that any documents are handwritten and kept in a safe space at home. 

3. Report the Behavior

Once you feel safe, tell someone at work about the harassment. Reporting the issue will allow your employer to take action and ensure that the behavior stops. At this point, you should have evidence for the employer to review that clearly indicates what you've experienced. With this information, they should conduct an investigation and possibly remove the harasser from the workplace. However, if they refuse to look into the issue, or if the employer is the one being inappropriate, it may be best to reach out to a lawyer for assistance. 

If you're dealing with harassment in the workplace, turn to The Law Offices of Bromm, Lindahl, Freeman-Caddy & Lausterer in Wahoo, NE. The attorneys at this practice will help you get the respect and compensation you deserve. They'll be happy to answer any of your questions about your rights in the workplace. Visit their website to learn more about how they can help, or call (402) 443-3225 to schedule a consultation.