What Is Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?
Sexual harassment in the workplace involves unwanted sexual advances, offensive sexualized comments, or unwanted physical actions that create a hostile or abusive work environment. Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination based on sex, gender, or sexual orientation.
Harassment can come from supervisors, coworkers, clients, or vendors and may happen in person, at work events, or online. For behavior to qualify as sexual harassment, the misconduct must be severe or pervasive—meaning repeated incidents of sexual conduct or a single egregious incident.
Examples of Sexual Harassment Include:
- Unwanted sexual touching or physical contact (groping, unsolicited kisses, massages)
- Comments or remarks about your body
- Persistent sexual advances despite saying no
- Requests for sexual favors in exchange for job benefits
- Sexual jokes, inappropriate remarks, or offensive comments
- Displaying explicit images or pornographic materials in the workplace
If you’ve experienced workplace sexual harassment, you don’t have to face it alone. A Florida sexual harassment attorney, like Brett Kaplan, can help you hold your employer accountable.
Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment can take many forms, all of which are prohibited under state and federal laws. Here are some of the most common types of workplace sexual harassment:
Sexual Harassment by a Supervisor
When a supervisor or manager engage in sexual harassment by abusing their position of authority to make unwanted sexual advances, engage in sexual physical advances, or demand sexual favors.
Unwanted Sexual Touching
Uninvited, non-consensual sexual contact is workplace sexual harassment. This includes:
- Groping, unwanted hugs, massages, and sexual battery.
- Unsolicited kisses or touching of private areas.
Unwanted Sexual Favors
Requests for sexual favors in exchange for job benefits—such as promotions, raises, or favorable treatment—are illegal. These situations, often referred to as quid pro quo harassment, exploit power dynamics and create sexual hostile work environments.
Online Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Online sexual harassment includes explicit texts, emails, social media messages, or video calls with sexual content. Harassment doesn’t have to be in person to be illegal.
Sexual Harassment at Workplace Functions
Work events should be professional environments. If you were harassed at a holiday party, retreat, or sales conference, your employer can still be held accountable for sexual harassment at workplace functions.
Sexual Harassment by Celebrity Employer
If you were harassed by a high-level executive, celebrity, or public figure, Kaplan Employment Law will stand with you in holding them accountable.
Laws Protecting You from Sexual Harassment in Florida
Both federal and Florida state laws prohibit sexual harassment in the workplace.
These laws also cover online harassment and harassment at off-site work events. Attorney Brett Kaplan can help you navigate the legal landscape and determine the best strategy for your case.
What to Do If You Are Facing Workplace Sexual Harassment
Facing workplace sexual harassment can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial to protect your rights. Here’s a concise guide:
1. Consult a Sexual Harassment Lawyer
Schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer, like Kaplan Employment Law. A sexual harassment lawyer can evaluate your case, guide you on preserving your rights, and provide strategies for your situation.
2. Locate Your Employee Handbook
To pursue a case, Florida law requires employees to report harassment. Review your employee handbook to identify the appropriate person or department for reporting. Request a copy from HR if needed.
3. Report the Harassment in Writing
File your report in writing, even if verbal reporting is allowed. Use your work email and avoid forwarding the report to personal accounts. If texting a supervisor, state you are reporting “sexual harassment.”
4. Document the Incidents
Maintain a detailed log of incidents, noting dates, times, and descriptions of the harassment you experienced. Use a secure app for notes and back up your records. Save relevant text messages, but avoid recording audio without consent, as this is illegal in Florida.
5. Cooperate with Employer Investigations
Employees in Florida must cooperate with employer-led investigations after reporting harassment. Providing clear, truthful information is vital to support your case.
6. Seek Therapy and Medical Treatment
If you experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD due to sexual harassment, medical records can strengthen your case.
Taking these steps will strengthen your position and help protect your rights. If you’re dealing with workplace harassment, contact an attorney to navigate the process and regain control.
