Like any professional environment, the tech industry isn’t immune to the insidious issue of sexual harassment. Understanding how to recognize and handle such situations is crucial for tech professionals to protect themselves and maintain a healthy workplace.

Over the past few years, the #MeToo movement placed sexual harassment at the forefront of workplace issues, but the issue isn’t a new one: multiple surveys over the years have reinforced how too many people have been the target of unwanted sexual harassment and advances. While the issue won’t be solved overnight, we can all make a difference if we recognize the signs and react appropriately.

Let’s break down some things you need to know.

Defining Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment encompasses any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile work environment. This can include:

• Verbal: Inappropriate jokes, comments, innuendos, propositions, threats.

• Nonverbal: Lewd gestures, staring, unwanted touching, invasion of personal space.

• Visual: Sexually suggestive images, emails, texts, social media posts.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) defines it as “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.” Although most people think of sexual harassment in terms of men making advances on women, it can also involve men harassing men, women harassing women, and women harassing men.

Identifying the Red Flags

While specific situations may vary, certain key markers can help you recognize potential sexual harassment:

• Unwanted and uncomfortable: Does the behavior make you feel uneasy, unsafe, or humiliated?
• Power imbalance: Does the perpetrator hold a position of authority over you?
• Repetitive and persistent: Is the behavior not a one-time incident, but a pattern of conduct?
• Interference with work: Does the harassment impact your ability to perform your job duties?

Strategies for Dealing with Sexual Harassment

If you experience sexual harassment at work, remember: you are not alone. Here are various ways to approach the situation:

• Direct Confrontation: If you feel safe, firmly and clearly tell the harasser to stop their behavior. Be assertive and specific about what you find unacceptable.

• Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of every incident, including dates, times, locations, witnesses, and the specific acts of harassment. Evidence will be crucial if you need to escalate the issue.

• Report to HR: Most companies have established grievance procedures or HR departments dedicated to handling harassment complaints. File a formal complaint, following the proper protocol outlined by your organization.

• Seek External Support: Reach out to external resources like employee assistance programs, advocacy groups, or legal professionals. They can provide confidential guidance and support throughout the process.

• File a Complaint with Legal Authorities: In cases of severe harassment or assault, consider filing a complaint with relevant legal authorities like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or local law enforcement.

Potential Outcomes and Next Steps

The outcome of your actions will depend on the severity of the situation and the response of your employer. Be prepared for various possibilities:

• Investigation and disciplinary action: The company may investigate your complaint and take appropriate action against the perpetrator, ranging from reprimands to termination.

• Mediation or settlement: In some cases, mediation may be offered to attempt to resolve the issue informally.

• Retaliation: Unfortunately, sometimes victims face retaliation from their harasser or employer. If this happens, document the details and seek legal advice.