Dear Steve and Lynelle,
Can it be sexual harassment if the person doing the harassing is not a boss or supervisor? There is a guy who works in our office who hits on me and makes lewd suggestions, but he does it humorously. Still, I find it bothersome. He does it to other women in the office, even some of the married ones. He can’t do anything to me professionally so it’s really just an annoyance. I haven’t reported him to anyone, but I have talked to some of the women in the office. Some feel like I do, others just laugh it off. Am I taking this too seriously?
Steve: If it bothers you, it bothers you. Even if he can’t harm you at your job, you shouldn’t have to put up with that in a work environment where you have to be. Before ratting him out, though, I suggest you have a talk with him. Tell him you’re tired of his suggestions. Be clear that if he doesn’t stop, you’ll take the matter to his boss. Of course, you might get some ribbing from the women who don’t mind his antics, but you probably already do anyway.
Lynelle: Sexual harassment is sexual harassment. It doesn't have to come from a boss. I agree with Steve, though. The best first step is to say something to him. He might not realize his comments are bothering you, so be very clear that you want this to stop. If it continues, then take the matter up with an authority figure in the company.
Send questions to steveandlynelle@heraldbulletin.com or 1133 Jackson St., Anderson, IN 46016. Their column appears Tuesdays.
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