Types of harassment in the workplace
If you have any kind of job in California, you are protected by the law in regard to sexual harassment in the workplace. Your employer is required to provide information to its workers on how to report a problem and what constitutes harassment. But in case you have not received training from your human resources department, read up and take the right steps to end harassment at your job.

Sexual Harassment Comes in Many Forms
Just because you are a supervisor, that does not mean that you cannot be harassed by one of your subordinates. Maybe the person taunting you never made a physical advance. But if somebody at work has used your sexual orientation, appearance, or dating practices against you, that may fall into the category of sexual harassment which is against the law

They Asked Me Out. Is that Harassment?
Maybe you are new to the team and one of your co-workers asked you out on a date. You said no, and that was the end of it. That is not harassment, just somebody trying to make friends. However, if you said no, and they continually pester you with new invitations every day, once a week, or even once a month, it could fall under sexual harassment. You should report the problem to your Human Resources department or supervisor. They are obligated to investigate and take action.

He is always making sexually explicit jokes while I am around. Should I complain?
Sexual harassment does not have to be physical. If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, and your co-workers or supervisors are constantly making jokes about you or other members of your community, tell them to stop! It is inappropriate and likely violates your company's policy regarding proper behavior in the workplace. If you are uncomfortable about approaching the responsible parties, work with a supervisor to resolve the situation. If it does not get better, it is time to involve the California Department of Justice.

I said no, and now I am not being promoted. What do I do?
Using sexual favors in exchange for a raise, promotion, or job security is one of the basic tenants of the federal sexual harassment statutes. It is illegal. These are the times that reporting the violator can be difficult, as the violator is typically the supervisor that you would normally work with to resolve harassment at your job. As required by law, your employer must post the contact information for the CDoJ in a space like the break room or locker room. Don't wait to call the State or a California sexual harassment attorney to seek support. If that supervisor is doing it to you, there are likely others that have suffered.

My boss bumps into me in the elevator every morning.
Physical intimidation can make anyone feel uncomfortable. If you notice that the same co-worker is backing you into corners, waiting to join you in an elevator or the restroom, or apologizes constantly for their wandering hands, you have a problem. You may need to document the situation using a diary and even getting somebody to snap pictures for you. Use your words and tell them to stop and follow through on reporting the problem.

"Your body looks great in that sweater!"
When they are constantly commenting on your physical appearance, that can be sexual harassment. Statements that focus on your body parts, curves, weight, and even hair can be used to make somebody feel uncomfortable. Anything that explicitly discusses your body parts definitely falls under the harassment category. Tell the offender that their comment and attention is not welcome. When it continues, report the problem to HR. When the company fails to address the problem, make sure to contact the State and a California sexual harassment attorney.

It's not about sex, but about my religion or friends.
Sometimes the harassment involves subjects that are not sexual in nature. However, intimidating a co-worker by referencing their lifestyle can also run afoul of federal equal employment laws. When they are leaving rude or harmful notes on your desk, in your locker, or in public areas--that is harassment. If jokes are made about religion or race, it can make you feel unwelcome or even unsafe. It should be reported and investigated when you are unable to resolve the issue yourself.

Types of Harassment in the Workplace
In our digital age, harassment does not always have to take place face-to-face. You can be verbally abused. They can send you emails or texts that are explicit and offensive. Psychological harassment is possible if you are in constant fear for your job or your safety. Of course, the abuse can also be physical.

In the end, when their attention is unwelcome, tell them to stop. When they do not, file a report with your company or the California Department of Justice. Only by taking action will the problem ever stop.