Sexual harassment impacts thousands of workers every year, many of whom may feel that they have no real voice or recourse. Recent public allegations against high profile figures in media, business and politics shine a light on how inappropriate behavior is often covered up or ignored altogether. As business leaders, we all share the responsibility for ensuring a safe environment for every employee. Failing to properly handle rumors and complaints of inappropriate behavior not only threatens your company’s culture, but can also permanently damage its reputation.
According to a recent article published by the Society for Human Resource Management, “failing to prevent an issue — or worse, ignoring an existing problem — can have monumental negative consequences, all of which have significant financial ramifications. If the victim complains to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the company will be the subject of an investigation, and, if meritorious, a lawsuit by the EEOC on behalf of the victim. In 2016, the EEOC received approximately 27,000 charges of sexual harassment.”
Creating a safe workplace culture begins with education. Western Growers University training will help your leadership team understand the issues surrounding appropriate communication and proper team dynamics. The training will also cover management’s responsibility for preventing, addressing and responding to incidences of sexual harassment. Western Growers will be offering sexual harassment training starting next year in the following cities:
Santa Maria, CA: February 21, 2018
Tulare, CA: April 3, 2018
Bakersfield, CA: April 4, 2018
For questions, contact Adriana Robles at (949) 885-2297.
