Prepare for the Festive Season

Harvey Weinstein. Most people have probably never heard of him or were aware he produced their favourite movies. You would have to be living in a cave not to have heard of him now. His name is being splashed all over the news for all the wrong reasons.

It was only a couple of weeks ago I thought I should revamp an article I did last year about educating employees about workplace harassment, discrimination and bullying. I normally encourage business owners to do this education prior to the festive season and work Xmas parties. However, it is important to do this education at any time, not just Xmas, and Mr Weinstein, and now a number of others, have kindly given me the opportunity to remind you now.

Unfortunately, it would be fair to say most people would not be aware of what workplace harassment, bullying and discrimination is and its consequences. Mr Weinstein’s case and many other high profile cases, see Seven Network, Uber and Macquarie Bank, involve people who we would assume should know better. But ignorance is not a defence.

When I would conduct education about workplace harassment, discrimination and bullying I would often have comments such as ‘why don’t they just walk away if they don’t like what I’m saying’ or ‘why don’t they tell me if they don’t like me doing that’? The answer to both those questions is, ‘they don’t have too’. Sometimes it may also occur that the same behaviour or joke has been said many times and the offended person may have gone along with the behaviour or joke. I always tell people,

What you need to remember is, what is said or done today may be alright, but may not be alright tomorrow. So be very aware. Sometimes it is better to say and do nothing.’

So while you are planning your Xmas Party, how about you also plan education for your Team regarding workplace harassment, bullying and discrimination. If not now, at least plan it. Also, make sure you have policies and procedures in place if the unthinkable should happen. It can be a high price to pay.