5 Ways to Help Prevent Harassment at Work
Preventing Harassment
Creating a workplace where employees feel safe, valued, and respected is not just good practice, it’s essential for business success. Harassment in the workplace can damage trust, lower morale, and increase turnover.
While many organizations have policies in place, prevention takes more than documents. It requires consistent action, leadership, and culture.
Here are five practical ways organizations can help prevent harassment at work.
1. Set Clear Policies
Employees should know exactly what behavior is expected—and what is not. Write your policies in plain language so they’re easy to understand. Share them during onboarding, in team meetings, and in your employee handbook. When people are clear on the standards, it’s easier to hold everyone accountable.
2. Train Everyone
One-time training sessions aren’t enough. Offer regular sessions for employees and managers, and go beyond just the legal requirements. Use real-world examples and create space for meaningful conversation. When people see training as relevant, not just a check-the-box task, they’re more likely to apply what they learn.
3. Encourage Reporting
Employees need to know they can raise concerns without fear. Provide multiple reporting channels so they can choose what feels safest. Make it clear that retaliation will not be tolerated. When leaders create an environment where speaking up is welcomed, issues are more likely to be addressed early.
4. Act Quickly and Fairly
How leadership responds to concerns sets the tone for the entire organization. Investigate thoroughly, stay neutral, and take action consistently. When employees see issues handled promptly and fairly, it builds trust and reinforces that the organization takes harassment seriously.
Tip: When harassment or misconduct cases make the news at other organizations, use them as teachable moments. Share the story with your team, and take the opportunity to revisit your own policies and remind employees of the reporting process. These moments keep prevention top of mind.
5. Build a Respectful Culture
Prevention goes beyond policy—it’s about culture. Leaders at every level should model respect in their daily actions. Recognize positive behavior, encourage open communication, and hold everyone accountable. A culture of respect makes it harder for harassment to take root.
“Preventing harassment isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits, it’s about protecting people and creating safe, respectful space without distractions, so they can focus on doing their best work.”
Preventing harassment at work takes more than a handbook or a training module. It requires leadership, consistency, and a commitment to creating a culture where employees feel safe and supported.
If your organization is ready to take the next step, we can help.
From updating policies to training your team and building stronger cultures, we partner with organizations to create safer, more respectful workplaces.
Reach out today to start the conversation.
