Examples of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment in the workplace includes any unwelcome comments, conduct, or behavior regarding sex, gender, or sexual orientation. All employees should be aware of what constitutes sexual harassment and report any incidences that occur.

Examples of Sexual Harassment:

• Actual or attempted rape or sexual assault

Obviously, any sexually motivated physical attack is sexual harassment. If you or someone you know has been assaulted in the workplace, please report it to the authorities immediately.

• Unwelcome deliberate touching

Colleagues should respect personal boundaries in the workplace. All employees should feel safe. Any unwanted touching could constitute sexual harassment. This could occur if another employee corners you in the office or deliberately touches you in an unwelcome and unprofessional way.

• Pressure for sexual favors

Quid pro quo harassment commonly refers to one employee offering another employee professional progress for sexual favors. However, pressure for sexual favors can come from supervisors, peers, or subordinates. Accordingly, this pressure can make the individual on the receiving end feel uncomfortable or trapped.

• Unwelcome and inappropriate comments

Sexual harassment is not limited to physical behaviors or conduct. Sexual harassment can also include unwelcome verbal advances. For example, this type of behavior may include making sexual jokes or commenting on an employee’s appearance. Also, cat calls, sexual questions or stories, and sexual innuendos can make other employees feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

• Unwanted sexual looks or gestures

Sexual harassment is not only physical or verbal. Sexual harassment can also be visual. Persistent staring and sexually suggestive gestures can create a hostile work environment for employees. Consequently, these signals can make the employee feel threatened.

• Unwanted gifts or communications

Sexual harassment can involve communications of a sexual nature from other employees or an employer. Sharing sexually unsuitable images or videos with other employees or sending suggestive written correspondences can affect an employee’s work environment. As a result, the employee is exposed to inappropriate materials at the workplace.

• Treating employees differently based on their gender

Employers should not treat employees differently based on gender. This treatment can include behaviors such as paying the employees less or failing to promote particular employees. Also, this type of conduct can include offensive comments about an employee’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

• Retaliation against an employee for making a complaint

An employer cannot retaliate against an employee for making a sexual harassment complaint. For instance, retaliation can include demotion, termination of employment, or maltreatment. You should report sexual harassment in the workplace without fearing repercussions. An employer should not retaliate against an employee making a complaint of sexual harassment.

Protect Your Career Today

This list is by no means exhaustive. In fact, sexual harassment can take many forms. Any of the examples above, and more, constitute sexual harassment. No one should tolerate these behaviors in the workplace. You should never feel afraid or uncomfortable where you work. We are here for you. Please call us for a free case evaluation if you think you may have experienced sexual harassment in your workplace.

Sexual Harassment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Represent Victims of Sexual Harassment and Retaliation

Sexual harassment is unlawful in the workplace. If you have experienced or are currently experiencing sexual harassment at your workplace, the sexual harassment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. can help you. Call our Red Bank office at 732-842-6500, our Marlton office at 856-985-9800, our Newark office at 973-878-9040, or contact us at 888-396-0736 or online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Jersey.