In our Sexual Harassment Awareness training courses your employees will learn and apply the important skills of handling sexual harassment issues and complaints. This hands on course thoroughly addresses the elements of how to prevent unacceptable behavior. The course includes a detailed overview of what sexual harassment is, explains legal definitions, discusses sexual harassment prevention, and shows how to handle sexual harassment complaints and maintain a positive work environment.

For more information about individual sexual harassment training courses please complete this form.  Once the form is received one of our consultants will provide you with a confidential proposal that will include a detailed description of the training course and the costs for conducting it. 

Sexual Harassment Training Courses: Sexual Harassment Via Technology

Technology has changed the way we communicate entirely. We email instead of write and we text instead of call. Although this is convenient, what happens when that convenience is compromised, especially when it comes to the workplace? The workplace has commonly used text messaging, email, and social networking to communicate with their employees, but we are seeing that technology has also opened a window that is difficult to close: sexual harassment.

Text messaging is now used as a source of communication at the workplace. Employers use it as a way to send a quick message to their employees. What is more common however is sending and receiving text messages to and from co-workers to meet up for dinner or drinks. The context of these kinds of messages via text can be misconstrued. This can also happen if these kinds of messages are sent using email or instant messenger.

It is important to be aware of what you are saying to co-workers as well as writing. Sometimes employees don't understand the importance of email in the workplace and the role it takes in office communication. If an email is sent to you and you deem as inappropriate, it is very important not to respond, especially if you respond in a way that you are accept that kind of behavior. If you reply using a "HaHa," the sender may think that their behavior was welcome. It is also important to avoid using symbols or smiley faces, as those can be completely misconstrued. People should also be aware that if they are using their private email to communicate to a co-worker, it can be used against them.

Workplace political experts say if you receive an unwelcome message, it may just be a fluke, but a pattern of this behavior can end up a disaster. If you're unsure if this behavior is normal for this sender, attempt to tactfully find out if they have a history of these kinds of emails. If so, it's a possibility that management is aware of the issue and has chosen to ignore it. If so, it may be worth finding other employment. You could of course take legal action, but unfortunately, attempting legal action can be emotionally and financially exhausting.

Social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter, are now a huge source of communication for many people. When people leave comments it can be difficult to interpret what one is trying to say. 80% of what people say is in your body language and your tone of voice. Technology eliminates both of those. In person, you can tell a co-worker that you liked her outfit and your body language and tone is apparent. If left as a Facebook comment, it can be hard to interpret your tone and can come off as sarcastic or leering, even if you don't mean it that way.

Using social networking sites can also be ground for someone's fantasy life. If you are posting pictures of you on vacation in your bikini, it may attract unwanted attention at work. If you're trying to portray professionalism, be cautious of what you post. Better yet, create separate profiles for your personal life and professional life.

Although technology has made it easier to communicate, it is important to be aware of what you are sending since the electronic footprint doesn't disappear. Always be aware of how your message can be interpreted and if you think may be inappropriate, it probably is.

Source: Patrick Murphy link