If you feel you are being sexually harassed at work, what is the first action you should take?

Reporting the conduct to your supervisor is an essential first step when dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace. This action is critical because it notifies someone in authority about the inappropriate behavior, which can prompt an official investigation and a resolution process. Employers have a legal and ethical obligation to provide a safe work environment, and they need to be informed to take appropriate measures.

Additionally, telling your supervisor establishes a record of the harassment and shows that the behavior is unwelcome. It addresses the issue through proper channels instead of relying on informal discussions or personal confrontations, which may not resolve the situation and could potentially escalate it further. This course of action also encourages a systematic response within the company, ensuring that the matter is handled according to established policies and procedures.

Other options, such as confronting the harasser directly or discussing the issue with coworkers, may lead to further complications or retaliation, and documenting incidents without reporting does not engage the necessary authorities to enact change or support for the individual affected. Thus, reporting to a supervisor is recognized as the most effective and responsible first action in addressing sexual harassment.