The topic of sexual harassment is one that many still avoid. As the #MeToo movement has shown, it is an effective way to educate people on this topic and work towards creating a safe place for everyone.
As such, there are ways in which the HR department can help combat this issue. First is to re-examine current policies surrounding this issue, its likely that this policy hasn't been reviewed in years. Re-examining allows you to see in new light how the policy can be improved or changed to create a safe workplace for all.
As mentioned, sexual harassment can happen to anyone regardless of gender and sexual orientation, with that in mind, educating staff that many groups can be affected opens the door for more people to come forward and voicing their experiences. HR should be well-equipped in handling and reacting appropriately regardless of who the victim is.
Training is a great way to not only open up space for conversation but also to educates everyone at the same time. Sharing personal stories or having interactive scenarios gives everyone a better understanding of how serious it is.
Reaching out and following up with victims show you genuinely care and are not just fulfilling your legal obligations. Check-in and, if appropriate, ask them if the way the situation was handled was okay or is there any way to improve further. This gesture can be very empowering and will mean a lot to those affected by it.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, there are no two ways around it. Creating a space that is safe for everyone to work in is important. The more people talk about it, the more people understand what's right and what's not.
Review company policies and see if they need to be updated
Have clear guidelines of what is good and what is bad
Be inclusive and know how to handle all types of situations and people
Provide trainings and personal sharing
Follow-up with victims
