Sexual harassment frequently happens to employees in the workplace. It can take many different forms, such as unwanted touching, repeated sexual advances, crude jokes, insults and much more. There are even instances of quid pro quo sexual harassment, where someone in a position of power—such as an executive or CEO—may use that authority to manipulate employees into sexual relationships, perhaps by offering them raises, promotions or immunity from layoffs.
However, most of these issues never come to light. According to one study, 70% of employees who experience sexual harassment do not file internal complaints with Human Resources. Additionally, 85% of these employees do not file legal charges against the employer. Why is it that most people who face sexual harassment at work never speak up?
Protecting their career
Often, individuals are concerned about their careers and fear potential retaliation. They keep the story to themselves because they do not want to face any negative ramifications.
For instance, suppose an employee’s boss has sexually harassed them at work. If they report it to HR, will the boss simply have them fired? Even if they are allowed to keep their job, will they be overlooked for future promotions or raises? Could the situation become so damaging that the employee is blackballed in the industry because they’re branded as some kind of troublemaker and lied about by their former boss?
It is important to note that retaliation for reporting sexual harassment is illegal. An employee can’t be fired or otherwise penalized for making a complaint or even for filing a lawsuit. It is critical to understand the legal options available and how to use them to protect your rights as an employee.