Remote work has become the norm in Minnesota, allowing employees to work from the comfort of their homes. Unfortunately, harassment does not stop when work goes virtual.
Any form of discrimination or harassment towards you is unlawful, even in remote settings. Consider learning the actions you can take if a co-worker’s behavior is creating a hostile environment.
Recognize forms of virtual harassment
Virtual harassment can be subtle and damaging, and this can include actions such as:
- Inappropriate comments during virtual meetings and one-on-one calls
- Online exclusion and isolation on important work tasks
- Back-handed comments on race, gender, age, disability and other protected characteristics
- Harmful gossip
- Unwelcome advances
- Mockery and insults
A harasser can create a hostile environment through these actions, intimidating or offending reasonable people. Anyone who exhibits this conduct violates state and federal laws.
Document all instances
If you believe that a colleague is harassing you, documenting their actions is essential. Compile records of all incidents, such as screenshots of rude messages and notes about unwelcome conduct during virtual meetings. You can also ask other colleagues to provide testimonies so you can build a case against the harasser.
Report and seek support
Experiencing harassment and discrimination at work can be traumatizing. In this difficult time, seek support from colleagues you trust. They can offer help in reporting your case to the human resources department as a collaborative effort in improving workplace safety. Additionally, an employment law attorney can provide you with personalized advice and guide you through the process of addressing virtual harassment.
