Some people watch the show Mad Men or The Office and laugh. Others cringe. Sure, it’s an interesting show, but there are moments when Those Times look a little bit too real. Particularly to people who have been the victim of workplace harassment.
But, before you decide this is just another HR approved lecture on managing workplace harassment, understand that you are living in a Brave New World in which nothing … seriously, NOTHING … is safe, and anything that happens On The Job can end up being played on an endless loop on YouTube, Facebook and even the national news. Gone are the days when a casual stupid remark could be summarily handled. One short smartphone video and you are suddenly Creepy Guy For Life.
Some might argue that today’s more casual office means people are closer-knit, more loyal and less likely to turn over a coworker, even if they think the guy is Captain Creepy. Well, good luck trying that argument when your face or that of your best sales guy is plastered across CNN.
The only defense against an accusation that can stain not only the reputation of the idiot in the video but also your entire brand is an aggressive campaign to create an environment where the social norms are well defined and clearly understood. Look, it’s no secret that some offices are looser than others in this regard…but that doesn’t mean everyone in your department agrees with that standard, or that the New Person is on the same page. To protect your people and yourself you have to communicate regularly, clearly and concisely.
And, when someone crosses the line, you have to deal with it in a way that won’t make matters worse. That also calls for a well thought out and pre-prepared plan of action. Or, skip it, and we’ll see you on the Daily Show.
Dr. Gil Lederman is a New York based entrepreneur.
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