What should an employee do if they feel they are being harassed at work?

If an employee feels they are being harassed at work, informing their supervisor and documenting the incidents are both critical steps to take. Reporting the harassment to a supervisor allows the company to be aware of the issue and initiate appropriate actions, ensuring that the workplace remains a safe and respectful environment. Supervisors are typically trained to handle such situations and can provide guidance on the next steps or support needed.

Documentation of the incidents is equally important. It helps create a record of the behavior and incidents, which can be necessary if the situation escalates or if formal action needs to be taken. This record can include details such as dates, times, locations, and descriptions of the events, as well as any witnesses. With this documentation, the employee can present a clear case against the harassment if needed.

Taking these steps provides a structured approach to addressing harassment issues, balancing personal safety, accountability, and formal reporting procedures within the workplace. Confronting the harasser directly can often escalate the situation and is not typically recommended as a first response. Being proactive in reporting and documenting not only aids the affected employee but also helps prevent further incidents for themselves and others.