Harassment can happen anywhere, even outside the office. When your employer asks you to attend a conference, holiday party or business trip, you are still representing the company. Many workers do not realize that harassment and misconduct at these events can be just as serious as conduct that happens in the workplace.
Company events still follow workplace rules
That annual holiday party at the downtown hotel might feel casual, but it is still a work function. The same applies to industry conferences, team-building retreats and client dinners. When your employer sponsors or organizes an event, the professional standards that apply in your office should also apply there.
Unfortunately, some people see these occasions as opportunities to behave inappropriately. Alcohol, a relaxed atmosphere and being away from the office can make some people feel freer to cross boundaries. People may make comments at the bar that they would never make at work. Someone may touch another person without permission on the dance floor. People tell offensive jokes during the cab ride back to the hotel.
Recognizing misconduct outside the office
Harassment can take many forms at employer-sponsored events. You might experience unwelcome sexual advances from a coworker during a networking mixer. A supervisor might make discriminatory comments about your religion, race or gender during a team dinner. Someone might send you inappropriate messages late at night during a multi-day conference.
Where the behavior happens matters less than why you were there. If you are attending because of your job, and the person engaging in the behavior has a connection to your workplace, that conduct could qualify as workplace harassment. This includes behavior by supervisors, coworkers, clients or vendors your company works with regularly.
Company events still follow workplace rules
If you experience harassment at a work-related event, document everything you can remember. Write down what happened as soon as you can, when it happened, who was present and who may have witnessed the incident. Save any text messages, emails or other communications related to the situation.
Report the incident to your human resources department or supervisor by following your company’s established procedures. Many employers have policies that address conduct at company-sponsored events, including those held off-site.
Understanding your options after harassment
Remember that your right to a harassment-free work environment does not disappear when you leave the office. Whether you are at a conference center in Indianapolis, a holiday party at a local restaurant or traveling for business, appropriate workplace behavior should still be expected. Knowing that company events still follow workplace conduct rules can help you recognize when someone crosses the line and decide what steps you might consider taking next.