Sexual Harassment Hurts People & Businesses

Sexual Harassment Hurts People & Businesses

Sexual Harassment Hurts People & Businesses.

Sexual harassment is an issue that often comes up in the work place. It is a serious matter because preventing it helps create a comfortable environment for all employees in a business. It is in the best interest for all companies to encourage an environment free of sexual harassment. Firstly, I will clarify what sexual harassment is. The issue can be looked at from different angles. A perpetrator could ask for sexual favours in return for career advancement. In other words, for a promotion someone could be asked to perform sexual acts. This is an example of a quid pro quo act. Another type of sexual harassment could involve discrimination because of a persons' gender. Basically, invadingsomeone'sprivacy with hostile conduct or abusive language, or talking openly about sensitive subjects. The act can also include stalking or annoying a co-worker. Sexual harassment is not taken seriously in many work places. This is why its important for me to talk about the consequences, why sexual harassment isn't good for a business, and what can be done to create awareness.

The consequences of sexual harassment can not only ruin careers, but also reputations. Laws vary in different regions. In Canada, a victim can receive financial compensation for the loss suffered. The acts of the perpetrator can cause him or her to be discharged from the company. Not only would this hurt the credibility of the perpetrator, but the company as well. The issue would become public through the press, the media would also question the integrity of the work environment. Other places, like Italy and the Philippines, see sexual harassment as a criminal act. The culprit could look at jail time. This is not good for a business, not for the victims, nor the perpetrators. Businesses have their reputations affected and potential hires may shy away from working for the company. Which can lead to questions about the company's business practice and ethics. This can result in a loss of profits and future equity.

Awareness can be created through frequent campaigning by the companies. It is important to create an environment where employees feel comfortable about raising their personal issues with sexual harassment. The campaigns can involve community lectures and informational pamphlets. This can help remind potential victims that they are being listened to, with confidentiality. Culprits will also be aware about the consequences of their actions. It is also in the governments' best interest to keep sexual harassment away, this is why companies should work closely with the government to enhance sexual harassment policies in the work place. This could lead to additional funding for the companies, and a betterperceivedimage. This helps set a new bar for the principles businesses wish to follow.

Written by Basim Mirza

Sources Used:

What every manager needs to know about sexual harassement [New York, 1999].

Darleen, Orlov & Michael Rournell.

All Business. A Global View of Sexual Harassment. [13th September 2009].

http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/599535-1.html

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