As you navigate your daily workload, you may not expect to have to deal with sexual harassment from coworkers around you.
Knowing the subtle signs that this issue is happening to you can help you know what steps to take next.
Inappropriate conversations and statements
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, employees or bosses who engage in sexually explicit jokes or comments can make people uncomfortable. This also falls under the definition of sexual harassment if it creates a hostile work environment.
This kind of harassment can happen during conversations or by the sharing of photos. You may feel nervous about coming to work or talking to fellow employees or your boss after these incidents continue to happen. This can lead to you missing out on chances for career advancement, including mentorship opportunities.
Sexual requests and deals
Some kinds of harassment are quid pro quo, which involves two parties making a deal that typically involves exchanging favors or goods for a promotion or job. If your boss or someone in a position of power approaches you and attempts to hint at making a deal based on exchanging sexual favors, then this could be a form of harassment.
Your boss may withhold important methods of career advancement if you do not comply. Due to this pressure, you may not want to not talk about this incident with anyone after the fact in case you cannot get a raise or a promotion. Whether you fear losing your job or enduring even more harassment, you may hesitate to reach out. Knowing what signs to watch for can help you.