Should You Report Harassment to HR?
98% of US organizations have a sexual harassment policy, and yet, 72% of victims of sexual harassment never report to HR.
– Career Builder Survey
Making the decision to report harassment or discrimination to your Human Resource department can feel risky. You have to trust the people you are reporting to; you have to trust you will be treated fairly; you have to trust their process; and you have to trust the OUTCOME will not work against you. There is a reason so many people don’t take their complaints to human resources.
If your company has a reporting process that makes it less of a risk to make a complaint, your HR representative may be your best option to find a quick resolution.
To help determine if filing a complaint with HR is a good option for you, we first offer pros and cons, followed with an options guide – 8 Options When Reporting to HR – with associated tasks, warnings, and outcomes, plus an effort/risk meter. And for those who choose to file a complaint with HR, we provide a step-by-step process to help you prepare for the complaint and investigation process.
Regardless of which direction you take, it is your energy, effort, safety and job at risk. Make the right choice for YOU.
REMEMBER
- This is a process. This issue will not be resolved quickly. It will take time.
- Your HR department represents the company’s interests first. They are looking for the best outcome for the company.
- Your HR department will manage the process.
- For your benefit, document everything! See our documentation templates HERE.
