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Non-verbal sexual harassment is often brushed off or minimized, but those actions carry weight. The lingering stares. The “joke” emojis. The way someone hovers too close or keeps showing up where you are. When it’s happening—especially if it’s coming from a supervisor, manager, or business owner—it can make your workplace feel hostile and exhausting.
You deserve to feel safe at work. HarassmentHelp.org is here to help you name what’s happening, understand the rights you have, and consider the steps you can take at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for clarity, a way to start documenting, or confidential support, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. We are here to offer whatever level of support or guidance you need.
Who We Are – HarassmentHelp.org
HarassmentHelp.org is a project of Phillips & Associates PLLC, a law firm focused on workplace sexual harassment and employee rights. Created by award-winning sexual harassment lawyers, we provide confidential support and safeguard employees from retaliation to end harassment, recover compensation, and protect their careers.
What Is Non-Verbal Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Unspoken sexual harassment includes stares, body language, digital images, silent physical presence, or inappropriate gestures that create a sexualized, intimidating, or hostile work environment.
Just because there’s no touching or talking doesn’t mean it’s harmless. When someone makes you feel trapped, watched, or sexualized at work without saying a word, it can still qualify as illegal sexual harassment under federal and state law, especially if the behavior is repeated or extreme.
You don’t need bruises, a text trail, or a confrontation to take action. If it’s affecting your mental health, safety, or ability to do your job, you can get help.
Examples of Silent or Unspoken Sexual Harassment at Work
Real-world examples include:
- Repeated sexual glances or leering
- Standing uncomfortably close or “brushing” past you
- Lurking in elevators, breakrooms, or parking areas
- Sexualized images on a co-worker’s phone, screensaver, or locker
- Watching you via mirrors or reflective surfaces
- Leaving flirty or suggestive objects near your belongings
Even if just one of these happens repeatedly, it can create a hostile work environment.
When Staring, Eye Contact, or Smirking Crosses the Line
If someone at work stares at your body, watches you intensely, or makes prolonged eye contact that feels sexually charged—it’s not just “awkward.” It could be sexual harassment. Many victims describe it as feeling undressed by someone’s eyes, even when nothing is said.
When this attention comes from someone with power—like a partner, manager, or executive—it often serves as a grooming tactic or control mechanism. Victims may change where they sit, avoid certain rooms, or dread being alone.
You don’t have to wait for a more obvious violation. If someone’s gaze or visual scanning makes you feel uncomfortable, vulnerable, or unsafe—you’re not overreacting.
Sexual Emojis, Images, and Digital Messages Without Words
Sexual harassment doesn’t always come in the form of a dirty joke or a proposition. Sometimes it shows up in texts, Slack messages, or DMs—without a single word. These include:
- 🍑, 🍆, or 💦 emojis used suggestively
- Selfies showing chest, abs, or body parts from co-workers or supervisors
- Disappearing messages via Snapchat, Instagram, or similar
- Late-night “thinking about you” photos with no explanation
- Sexual GIFs or memes on workplace chats like Slack or Teams
Even if it’s “just a joke” or quickly deleted, these unwanted digital interactions can create a hostile environment—especially when they’re repeated or from someone in authority.
Get the Information You Need to Make the Best Choices for You
When They Keep Showing Up Where You Are
Some harassment is silent but suffocating. You may notice someone always showing up where you are—even in places they have no business being.
Examples include:
- A co-worker who always “happens” to be nearby when you’re alone
- A supervisor who appears in hallways, garages, or stairwells without speaking
- A manager who lingers by your desk without a work-related purpose
- Someone who silently blocks your path or watches you without saying anything
If you start avoiding places, altering your routine, or feeling unsafe in your own workspace, that’s a major red flag.
They Haven’t Touched You—But It’s Still Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment does not require touching. Under the law, what matters is whether the behavior is:
- Unwanted
- Sexual or suggestive
- Creating a hostile or offensive environment
Examples:
- Sexual staring
- Standing too close repeatedly
- Sending shirtless selfies or flirty emojis
- Making sexual gestures or mimicking body movements
How Silent Harassment Impacts Your Mental Health and Career
Many victims feel like they’re being gaslit—wondering if they’re imagining it, even as they:
- Avoid rooms or co-workers
- Struggle with sleep or anxiety
- Stop participating at work
- Feel trapped by fear of retaliation
Case Example – “He Never Said a Word, But I Felt Hunted”
“Jasmine” was a legal assistant. After a few weeks of being stared at and complimented, her boss began sending shirtless selfies late at night. He never said anything inappropriate in person—but the silence was part of the pressure. Jasmine documented everything, got legal help, and reached a confidential settlement without risking her career.
Your Legal Rights in Cases of Unspoken Sexual Harassment
Federal Protections
- Title VII covers non-verbal and silent sexual harassment in workplaces with 15+ employees.
State & Local Laws
- Many states protect workers at smaller companies.
Employer Responsibility
- Employers are strictly liable when a manager or business owner is the harasser.
The HarassmentHelp.org RGA Approach
We guide you through RGA — Rights, Guidance, and Action, a safe and supportive process designed to help you protect yourself, preserve your career, and stop the harassment.
- Rights – Understand Your Protections
We help you understand what’s acceptable in the workplace, what crosses the line, and how the law protects you from harassment and retaliation. - Guidance – Build Your Case Safely
We offer confidential, nonjudgmental support before any formal action, helping you evaluate the safest and most effective steps for your situation. - Action – Take Steps With Full Support
You never have to face harassment on your own. We can help you create a plan that feels safe and manageable, and connect you with trusted sexual harassment attorneys who can draft complaints, handle communication for you, or work toward a private resolution.
What To Do If You Are Experiencing Non-Verbal Sexual Harassment at Work
If you’re experiencing harassment, here’s how the RGA approach works in real life:
Document What Happened
Write down the incident details as soon as possible—date, time, location, who was involved, and exactly what was said or done. Note any witnesses and save relevant messages, emails, or voicemails. The more detail you record, the stronger your case becomes.
Decide Whether to Confront the Harasser
You are not required to confront the person harassing you. Only consider it if you feel completely safe and supported. In some cases, telling them their behavior is inappropriate and unwelcome may stop it. If you’re unsure, uncomfortable, or fear retaliation, we’ll help you evaluate safer alternatives.
Report the Behavior—Safely and Strategically
Reporting harassment without preparation can be risky. We may be able to help you:
- Prepare a complaint or other communication with clear legal language that documents your rights.
- File a formal complaint with your employer or HR in a way that creates a legal record.
Even if your workplace doesn’t have an HR department, a written complaint to a manager, owner, or supervisor still matters. If harassment comes from a customer or client, your employer is still responsible for addressing it.
Explore a Quiet Resolution Before Filing a Formal Complaint
Sometimes you may want to resolve the situation without going public. Our attorneys can:
- Prepare a confidential summary of events.
- Outline the harm done and your legal protections.
- Communicate directly with your employer respectfully but firmly.
This approach can result in an immediate end to harassment, schedule or department changes, removal of the harasser, or a mediated agreement—without public exposure.
How HarassmentHelp.org Supports You Every Step of the Way
Here’s what working with us looks like from start to finish:
- Confidential Conversation – Share your story in a safe space — no pressure to act right away.
- Evidence Building – We help you keep detailed records of incidents, messages, and witnesses.
- Strategy – Connect you with top sexual harassment attorneys who can help with preparing complaints, filing complaints on your behalf, or pursuing private resolutions.
- Protection from Retaliation – Take proactive steps to safeguard your job, career, and reputation
