Harassment at work: 5 tips to get out of it!
According to a Securex study from January 2019, more than one in three Belgian workers feel harassed in the workplace and this has continued to increase compared to 2017.
Depreciation, loss of self-esteem and work esteem, burn-out or in the most serious cases, severe depression: harassment at work is now a reality that affects many workers. That's why Meet My Job gives you practical tips on how to defend yourself and deal with this situation! 👇
Take a step back and avoid feeling guilty
When you experience harassment at work by someone, it is important not to let yourself be destabilized. Indeed, the harasser first seeks to devalue your work and make you lose self-confidence.
Remember that you are never responsible for your harassment and should not feel guilty about this situation. You are the victim of this situation and not the culprit.
It is therefore important for you to take a step back from the situation, it is difficult but it is an essential element to avoid falling into the trap of harassment. Try to note all the small details that contribute to your harassment such as murderous remarks, sidelining during meetings or outside...
If the harasser persists in these attacks, do not retaliate directly
Sometimes it's hard not to react to an unfounded remark or a virulent attack. However, you must not react in a hurry because your harasser is just waiting for it. He seeks to have a hold on you because it is a kind of " game " for him.
So you have to be indifferent to them : try to keep smiling, to respond to these remarks with humor, as if they don't affect you.
If he attacks you on your work: try to be irreproachable professionally : respect the deadlines of your projects, be conscientious, avoid being late or causing conflicts. This way, you will be unassailable on this level and the harasser will not be able to criticize you for your work.
If harassment at work continues, confront the person in a face-to-face interview
Despite your indifference, the person who is harassing you continues, so it is important to confront him directly and frankly.
You should not accuse him directly because he may deny your reproaches outright. Ask him for concrete explanations of his attitude, with precise arguments and testimonies from people if possible.
If you take the step of going directly to meet him, he should feel less strong in front of you. He will understand that he is unmasked and will probably be taken aback by your insurance. You have to make it clear to him in a firm and courteous way that you know how to defend yourself and you will not be alone in this matter if he continues to act.
The harasser continues despite everything? You need to let people know about your company
After this explanation with you, he continues to harass you. You should talk to your superiors directly. Talk to someone who is aware of harassment, such as the human resources manager, the occupational doctor or the staff representative.
But before you tell your boss, try to collect evidence of your harassment. Emails, letters, testimonials from colleagues, specific actions against you, or even audio recordings if you lack information.
Cases of harassment at work are numerous and sometimes difficult to detect. Collecting evidence of your harassment will allow you to have more credibility with your superiors.
In addition, these elements will be useful to you in court if you plan to file a complaint against your harasser.
Harassment at work affects your health: drastic measures are needed
The situation becomes catastrophic, your mental and physical health deteriorates and you are at your wit's end. It is important to protect yourself by getting out of this toxic situation, there are several possibilities for this:
You can ask for a transfer to another department, where you will not be in contact with your harasser.
You can take a sabbatical, even if it requires having the financial means. This leave will allow you to recharge your batteries, rest and perhaps look for a new employer.
You can take sick leave if you are too affected by the situation. You will have to consult your general practitioner, the occupational doctor and talk to your human resources manager.
Finally, you can resign from your position and leave the company. Even if the harasser will still be in the company, it is sometimes the only solution not to aggravate your condition. Before making this decision, think about your different options (resignation, negotiated dismissal, amicable termination of the employment contract, etc.).
You don't know how to do it? Ask for advice from a lawyer specialising in labour law : he or she will be able to assist you in this ordeal!
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