How to Approach Sexual Harassment Policies As a Manager

Apr 30
08:08

2010

RJ Sullivan

RJ Sullivan

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One of the most difficult jobs a manager has is to implement and police Sexual Harassment policies in the workplace. However, if they follow basic guidelines the job will become much easier.

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So management has asked you to do sexual harassment training and make sure the policies are adhered to with the employees you manage. It's not an easy task and not a comfortable one either. Here are a few tips to make sure that your policy is implemented and adhered to.

Treat it seriously from day one.

When you have the initial training and explain the policies to your employees you need to be serious. More than likely,How to Approach Sexual Harassment Policies As a Manager  Articles there will be a few employees there begrudgingly. They will feel the training is a waste of time and they might make a disparaging comment or two. The comments likely will revolve around how you can't say anything anymore or that we don't live in a free country anymore. Don't smile or snap at them. Stay calm and tell them that Sexual Harassment important because we all deserve to work in a place that is comfortable and free from harassment. Explain to them that the company has a zero tolerance for Harassment and like it or not it is company policy. It's up to you to address any comments immediately. If you don't, your employees won't take the policy seriously.

Nip it in the Bud.

Once the training has been finished and the policy implemented you will run into a situation. Someone will send an inappropriate email or tell an inappropriate joke. How you handle this situation is critical. If you smile or laugh at the joke while you tell them it's inappropriate and not tolerated, they will not take the policy seriously. You need to be stern but not angry and explain that the joke or email is not acceptable and that it is not not tolerated under the company's sexual harassment policy.

As a manager the company's sexual harassment policy is in your hands. How you handle the training and situations that arise will make all the difference. If you treat it seriously, so will your employees and future harassment complaints and lawsuits will be alleviated.