Sexual harassment takes many forms, ranging from sideways looks and inappropriate jokes to disparaging remarks based on gender stereotypes, to more pronounced physical forms of sexual assault.
In the modern work setting, these advances can often be regarded as harmless and innocent, but they shouldn’t be excusable. Sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful discrimination that does not only have a detrimental influence on the office environment but can also lead to unjust employment practices and can cause damages to workers’ confidence and well-being. It’s one of the most challenging circumstances a person may encounter in their job.
Here’s what you need to know about the impact of sexual harassment on your business:
1. Reduced Productivity
When you have an unsafe work environment, chances are, your employees will feel detached and disengaged. A toxic workplace can make them unable to focus on the tasks and outputs they’re expected to do. Employees might lose interest, resulting in a loss of productivity long term.
According to NCBI, harassment is linked to an increased risk of anxiety, sadness, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as lower self-esteem, self-confidence, and psychological well-being. After suffering a traumatic experience, your team members may feel out of control or helpless. As a result, they may adopt restrictive habits to manage that part of their lives to cover their emotions of humiliation, hopelessness, and dread. As a result, not only will their work-life be affected, but also their mental health.
And in some cases, an employee who was subjected to sexual harassment is more likely to quit and resign from their positions due to the traumatic occurrence. In return, this can affect your daily operations. But aside from that, you’d have to endure the process of turnover and hiring and training of new staff as well.
2. Can Impact Your Company’s Reputation
In any business, reputation is fundamental. Not only can it help establish your brand, but it can also determine how long you’re going to stay running in the industry. That said, having a negative image can significantly hurt your business, which may then result in revenue loss.
For instance, when consumers learn of the news of a sexual harassment incident at a company, their view of the organization as a whole gets tainted and ruined. A company associated with cases of harassment may have difficulty not only in retaining employees or attracting top talents but maintaining a positive public image too.
Having a good business reputation can also increase your chances of gaining loyal customers. Consumers are more likely to purchase services or goods if they trust the brand and what the company stands for.
That said, if consumers learn about misconduct incidents, they are likely to lose trust in them and refuse to be affiliated with them.
3. Can Experience Challenges In Recruitment
Aside from the consumer’s perspective, a business with a good reputation can also recruit better employees. Candidates are more inclined to join a team that values a psychologically safe environment and healthy culture. Conversely, they are less likely to apply for jobs at organizations with a negative reputation, especially a toxic work culture.
That said, businesses might have difficulty in managing their daily operations in the long run, especially if they don’t have suitable members on their team to do the job.
Raising Sexual Harassment Awareness In The Workplace
Setting boundaries and strict parameters should be one of your priorities as an employer. Sexual harassment and other ignorant misconduct are less likely to occur when people are aware of the standards placed at work.
Raising awareness is crucial because it shows that you care for your team members and don’t tolerate illicit actions in the workplace. Your staff will feel protected and appreciated. They know that if anything happens or if they voice out their concerns, they won’t be ignored or disregarded.
You can conduct seminars and training, that way your employees can learn what professional behavior is and why it is essential. By doing so, you can establish order and respect among peers, which not only promotes a safe place to be, but can also strengthen professional relationships within your team.
Conclusion
Sexual harassment isn’t only limited to usual incidents such as unwanted advances. It also includes unwelcome verbal and physical actions, which can then potentially create a hostile work environment. Harassment, in any form, can certainly impact your employees’ well-being, affecting the way they work and your business operations in the process.
That said, it’s critical to raise awareness and take fast action to protect your team members from such negative actions and behavior. By enforcing safety measures, you can significantly promote a healthy and more productive work environment for your team members.
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