05.28.09
Reflection and Advice on Reader Letters
I was reviewing the letters I’ve received privately through my email address this morning, and two important pieces of information kept surfacing. If you feel you might be experiencing sexual harassment or other forms of workplace abuses, there are two important things you should consider. One, begin documenting all events, actions, conversations, project assignments, change in job responsibility, wage practices, etc. Include dates, times, locations, and names of all persons involved. Be as specific as you can.
Secondly, maintain confidentiality regarding your situation. You may wish to share your concerns with a co-worker, but the last thing you need is company gossip to muddy the waters. Let’s face it, people talk, and they pass judgment without having all of the facts. Protect your privacy, protect your good name, and protect your future employment while you gather data confidentially, then present it to an objective third party such as Human Resources, your union representative, or other third party representative. If your company does not have a Human Resources department, you may consider talking with a more senior executive in the company, or you can also contact legal aid or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for assistance. The important thing is follow your instincts. If you believe you were harassed, and if you dealt with unwelcome conduct in the workplace that was offensive, you should seek assistance.
If you have questions or comments, write to me privately at normarae2008@gmail.com, or write to this blog at www.stopworkplaceharassment.com.
