How do I know if I’m being sexually harassed at work?
If someone’s behavior makes you feel uncomfortable—whether it’s touching, comments, messages, or staring—it could be sexual harassment. It’s not your fault, and you are not required to confront the harasser directly. Here are some signs that you may be experiencing sexual harassment at work:
- Unwanted touching or physical contact – Hugs, pats, or brushes up against you that feel uncomfortable.
- Sexual comments or jokes – Remarks about your body, clothing, or sex life, or jokes with sexual content.
- Inappropriate messages – Emails, texts, or social media messages that are sexual, suggestive, or harassing.
- Staring or leering – Persistent, uncomfortable attention or invasive looks.
- Pressure for dates or sexual favors – Requests, invitations, or coercive behaviors that make you feel unsafe or pressured.
- Retaliation or punishment – Being treated differently, ignored, or penalized after rejecting advances or reporting behavior.
- Unequal treatment from authority figures – Supervisors or managers using their power to manipulate, intimidate, or exploit you.
How can I report sexual harassment at work?
Document what happened, when, and who witnessed it. You are not required to confront your harasser or report internally if it doesn’t feel safe or productive, and you certainly do not need to do it alone. HarassmentHelp.org can guide you through your options, from reporting internally, to exploring a quiet resolution, or filing a complaint with a state or federal agency. We can also connect you with trusted resources, including an experienced team of sexual harassment lawyers who can help protect your rights.
Can I be fired for reporting sexual harassment?
No. It is against the law for your employer to fire you, cut your hours, demote you, or otherwise punish you for reporting sexual harassment. Unfortunately, retaliation does still happen, which is why keeping careful notes of what you experience is important. If you’re worried about retaliation or need guidance on how to protect yourself, HarassmentHelp.org can help you understand your rights and choose your next steps.
What kind of evidence do I need to prove sexual harassment?
Texts, emails, chat messages, or even voicemails are typically the strongest types of evidence when it comes to proving sexual harassment at work. Witnesses can also play a key role in supporting a worker’s story. However, even if you have no physical evidence and there were no witnesses, it’s still important to document the details of the sexual harassment. The person who harassed you may already have prior complaints or a pattern of behavior, and your documentation could be a crucial part of establishing that.
Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
You don’t have to have a lawyer to file a complaint, but having guidance can make the process safer and more effective. A sexual harassment lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes, meet deadlines, and ensure your case is as strong as possible. HarassmentHelp.org was founded by award-winning sexual harassment attorneys and can connect you with a trusted lawyer, or simply provide confidential support so you can make an informed decision about your next steps.
What legal options do I have if I’ve been harassed at work?
If you’ve experienced sexual harassment, you have options. You can file a formal complaint, pursue legal action, or explore a quieter resolution—like having HarassmentHelp.org ghostwrite a complaint or negotiate on your behalf—without directly confronting your harasser. Our team can guide you through these choices safely, help you understand your rights, and connect you with experienced sexual harassment attorneys if you want professional legal support.
How long do I have to take legal action after experiencing harassment?
The amount of time you have to take legal action depends on the laws in your state. In some places, you may have as little as 180 days from the last incident to file a complaint. Others may allow more time. The team at HarassmentHelp.org has experience handling instances of workplace sexual harassment across the country and is able to provide tailored guidence based on your location.
