What do I do if my Coworker is Repeatedly Requesting Sex?
No one wants to be put in a position where they dread going to work because of the irresponsible actions of others. When sexual harassment in any form happens in the workplace, you should understand that you have options for handling the situation. If there is a coworker who is constantly making sexual advances towards you, then that is sexual harassment and these are options you should pursue.
Confront The Aggressor
Your first step is to talk to the coworker and let them know that you will not consent to sex, nor even the conversation, and you do not appreciate the advances. People are often surprised at how many times a simple conversation with a coworker explaining that the discussion is inappropriate and offensive solves the problem. The fact is that you will never know if asking the coworker to stop will work until you try.
Report The Problem To Your Supervisor
If talking directly to the aggressor does not work, then it is time to make an official complaint. If possible, before you talk to your supervisor, it helps to document instances of unwanted advances from your coworker. You can make a note each time an advance is made and, if possible, you should record one or two of the instances to lend credibility to your charges.
Regardless, you need to discuss the problem with your supervisor. If a Supervisor is the aggressor, you may have to go to his boss or the H.R. department in the first instance. Your company has policies regarding sexual harassment and you will more than likely be asked to file a harassment claim with your human resources department.
When The Company Will Not Help
Unwanted sexual advances in the workplace are very serious issues that need to be addressed immediately. If your company does not take action after you have filed your complaint, then speak to your supervisor again about the importance of the company taking action. If your complaint is still not being acted on, then it is time to talk to an experienced attorney about your situation.
Anyone who has to deal with persistent requests for sex from a coworker or supervisor is not going to be as productive at work as they could be and their job could be in jeopardy. Sexual harassment at work can also affect your personal life as you might start to trust people less and decide that staying home is better than being social.
Our firm is ready to help you with your sexual harassment issues at your place of employment. Contact one of our compassionate sexual harassment lawyers today to find out your options and get the advice you need to get your life back on track.