Experiencing sexual harassment can be a traumatic experience. The victim may keep wondering what they did wrong or what else they could have done to avoid the situation. When sexual harassment occurs, there are inevitable mistakes victims make that ruin their case. This is not victim-blaming, but learning what the mistakes are can empower you.
No victim of sexual harassment has ever been responsible for what happened to them. However, knowing what steps to take and what to avoid after it happens is important. Visit this website to look for the best attorneys in town and speak to one today.
Common mistakes of sexual harassment victims
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Failing to confront the harasser.
Facing your harasser and talking to them, especially with no one around, can be very scary. However, according to the law, it is important to notify the harasser about the incident and how it made you feel so that they can get a chance to realize and correct their actions. You must also clearly express that you wish for these incidents to stop.
If you are unable to be in the same room as your abuser, which is completely normal, you may send them an email. You can convey your message without actually meeting them face-to-face, but make sure they receive it.
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Letting other people tell you what to do.
When sexual harassment takes place in the workplace, you have the right to choose whether you want to report the incident or not. You have options; you may choose to ignore it or make a complaint about it. Whatever you do, make sure it is something you want. Do not let others tell you what to do when it comes to abuse.
For example, many victims want to report their cases but still do not make a report because of other people telling them that it is stressful to be involved in things like this. Do not make this mistake as the harasser may even become braver and hurt you or another person.
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Not documenting the harassment.
Make sure to keep emails, messages, voice notices, call recordings, and physical evidence like pictures of bruises, etc., that can be helpful in later litigation. Not every sexual harassment incident leaves evidence for the victim to collect afterward. If you do not have physical or digital evidence or even any witnesses, write an account of every incident that took place.
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Not contacting an attorney.
Do not be one victim who wants to forget the incident and move on. While you may not want to be reminded of the horrible event again, it is essential to stop it. If you do not take legal action against the abuser, they might target you or someone else again.
