There is no one singular definition of workplace harassment. Workplace harassment is generally defined as conduct that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome. This can include standard things that you might think of as harassment, such as name calling, shouting, or physical contact. Yet harassment can take on many more forms when it comes to the workplace. Unwelcome jokes or comments, bullying, ostracization, or even playing pranks on a colleague can also all be considered harassment.
Workplace harassment also includes workplace sexual harassment, which despite increased public awareness is still prevalent in so many forms. Kissing, touching, and groping are more obvious forms of sexual harassment, but it can also take the form of leering, unwanted compliments, propositioning, or intentionally intimidating someone. Sexual harassment in the workplace occurs regardless of age, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation.
When managers are involved, harassment may take on more subtle forms. Belittling or demeaning employees, setting unrealistic and unachievable goals, singling out employees, or offering unduly harsh or unfair criticism are all forms of workplace harassment that, while less obvious, can still have a significant negative impact on an employee. Moreover, given how much of the workplace has moved online recently, harassment may not always occur in person but can take place through text messages, emails, instant messages, or videoconferencing – all of which is treated exactly the same as if it had happened face to face in person.
