I think I do not need to mention what is in the news these days. Many people at high places are being named in sexual harassment cases and so should they be, if they did it.
I think culture towards women is changing slowly but still society has a long way to go. Making sexual comments or saying dirty things in front of female coworkers in name of humor are still common at workplaces. I work with women myself and we all joke around a lot and sometimes, unintentionally things are said for a few laughs. But none of it is said in a flirtatious or suggestive way. But I think I am going think twice now.
Now, since this transition is going to be long and slow, people, especially men have to tread very carefully. What you might say as a harmless comment or a joke could be (mis)interpreted as sexual harassment. In the past, I never even thought twice about people touching their (both male and female) co-workers on the shoulder or patting their back as appreciation. An occasional friendly, and quick hug has always been very common.
I have never done anything sexual or naughty with any of my coworkers because firstly it is wrong to make advances (unless you sense something) and secondly and more importantly I don't think that having affairs at workplace is a good idea. The consequences could be disastrous. But we are talking about something different and that is a co-worker esp a female one accusing you of sexual harassment or making sexual advances.
I am not saying that the women in news are doing it for publicity. But I am sure there is a very small percentage of women who could ride this wave and try to make a quick buck by accusing a boss of harassment.
Do you think it will change the way you, especially men, will start to act around women? Are you being extra wary about the way you interact socially, orally (pardon the pun) or physically around your coworkers?
I know I will.
T8E
I think culture towards women is changing slowly but still society has a long way to go. Making sexual comments or saying dirty things in front of female coworkers in name of humor are still common at workplaces. I work with women myself and we all joke around a lot and sometimes, unintentionally things are said for a few laughs. But none of it is said in a flirtatious or suggestive way. But I think I am going think twice now.
Now, since this transition is going to be long and slow, people, especially men have to tread very carefully. What you might say as a harmless comment or a joke could be (mis)interpreted as sexual harassment. In the past, I never even thought twice about people touching their (both male and female) co-workers on the shoulder or patting their back as appreciation. An occasional friendly, and quick hug has always been very common.
I have never done anything sexual or naughty with any of my coworkers because firstly it is wrong to make advances (unless you sense something) and secondly and more importantly I don't think that having affairs at workplace is a good idea. The consequences could be disastrous. But we are talking about something different and that is a co-worker esp a female one accusing you of sexual harassment or making sexual advances.
I am not saying that the women in news are doing it for publicity. But I am sure there is a very small percentage of women who could ride this wave and try to make a quick buck by accusing a boss of harassment.
Do you think it will change the way you, especially men, will start to act around women? Are you being extra wary about the way you interact socially, orally (pardon the pun) or physically around your coworkers?
I know I will.
T8E