A series of articles to guide you on safe and supportive ways to respond if someone at work confides in you about a sexual harassment incident at your workplace
Imagine yourself at work. It’s just another day, you’re checking email, responding to questions from juniors, sitting for meetings.
Then one of your colleagues pings you – “hey, can I call you?” The next thing you know, you’ve just hung up to a deeply unsettling instance that your colleague shared, of being sexually harassed. You may or may not know the respondent by face or name, but you still work together in the same office.
If this experience makes you feel a mixture of fear and wanting to help, you’re not alone. Here are three recommended ways to respond to a colleague who’s confided in you about being sexually harassed at work:
Signal empathy
You can offer tangible support to the complainant without having to risk your position at work. Begin by asking the complainant, “tell me how to support you right now. I’m here for you.” Just hearing this can be deeply reassuring to someone who is very likely wondering if anyone will take them seriously.
Check the Policy
You can take a quick look at the company PoSH policy and identify the next steps. You can help the complainant make sense of the inquiry process, and get the information she needs from the internal committee. Under the PoSH law, you can also assist the complainant in drafting a written complaint.
Be Available
Sexual harassment is one of the lowest reported crimes in India. It’s possible that your colleague may decide not to file formally, despite your support. Try not to express your frustration to them. Let them know you’re available, should they ever consider reporting in the future.
While facing sexual harassment can be a daunting experience, extending your support can go a long way for both you and the complainant.