No employee should be subjected to the distressing experience of harassment at work. Nevertheless, it is crucial to promptly and effectively resolve the matter while simultaneously ensuring your employment. At Hasbini Law Firm in San Diego, we comprehend the intricacies of workplace harassment and provide practical guidance on how to confront these obstacles.
1. Evaluate Your Employee Handbook and Policies
The initial step is to become acquainted with the harassment policies of your organization. The procedures for reporting harassment and the safeguards in place for employees who come forward are typically outlined in your employee handbook. Comprehending these policies will furnish you with the requisite framework to implement well-informed decisions.
2. Record the Harassment
It is imperative to preserve a comprehensive record of each harassment incident. Please record the dates, times, locations, and descriptions of the events, as well as any witnesses who were present. This documentation will be a valuable source of evidence if you need to escalate the situation or pursue legal action.
3. Document the Harassment in Writing
Review the harassment policies in your place of employment and follow the appropriate channels to report the harassment to management in writing. This harassment report is essential evidence for future lawsuits, even if you are uncertain that filing a complaint with your supervisor or HR director will be beneficial. Your employer is required to take the necessary action and a formal record of your complaint is established through the submission of a written report.
4. Reject Your Harasser
It is crucial to explicitly inform your harasser that their conduct is unacceptable and must cease. It is imperative to be firm and unequivocal in your response, whether it is communicated verbally or in writing. Although this step can be difficult, it can serve as further documentation of your endeavors to resolve the issue and reinforce your stance.
5. Request Assistance from Colleagues
Inform your trusted colleagues of your circumstances. They may also serve as witnesses to the harassment and offer emotional support. Having allies at work can provide a support network and strengthen your case as you navigate the reporting process.
6. Follow Up on Your Report
After reporting the harassment, it is important to follow up with your HR department or supervisor to confirm that your complaint is being taken seriously and that the necessary actions are being taken. Your dedication to resolving the matter is evident in your consistent follow-ups, which also ensure that your case remains in the minds of those who are responsible for addressing it.
7. Be aware of your rights.
Familiarize yourself with the federal and state governments’ laws pertaining to workplace harassment. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) in California offers employees comprehensive protections. If your employer fails to address your complaint, understanding your legal rights adequately can enable you to take additional action.
8. Consult with a legal professional
It may be necessary to seek legal counsel if your employer fails to address your complaint or if the harassment persists. Guidance on the optimal course of action can be obtained by consulting with an employment law specialist. At Hasbini Law Firm, we provide complimentary consultations to assist you in comprehending your options and safeguarding your rights.
9. Submit a Complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
If the issue is not resolved through internal reporting, you can submit a complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is authorized to prosecute employers who violate the law and investigate allegations of workplace harassment and discrimination.
10. Ensure Your Safety from Retaliation
Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who report harassment. Document and report any instances of retaliation, including termination, reduction in hours, or demotion, as soon as possible. To protect employees from retaliatory behavior, legal safeguards are implemented.