Dealing With Sexual Harassment In The Workplace

This affordably priced two-tape packaged series on sexual harassment in the workplace offers an outstanding common sense guide for managers and employees on how to deal with this rampant, often misunderstood, and rarely talked about facet of working. The first video is aimed at management: it answers the question "what's the big deal?" straight on by explaining that sexual harassment is both "illegal" and "unfair" to employees. Explaining both types of sexual harassment which are legally recognized--quid pro quo (sexual favors as a condition of employment, promotion, or work benefit) and "hostile environment," a wide ranging term which can cover provocative posters, the telling of dirty jokes, inappropriate remarks, etc.--the program goes on to discuss the most common behaviors linked to sexual harassment. Once the explanations have been given, the program strongly advises employers to have a sexual harassment policy in place, and offers suggestions for what should be included in the policy (the appointment of a staff liaison to accept sexual harassment claims, the importance of including a non-retaliation statement, etc.). The second video is meant to be watched by employees and includes some of the same prefatory material, but instead of a detailed guide to putting together a strong sexual harassment policy, this program features dramatic vignettes which help employees understand what is objectionable behavior, why it's objectionable, and what the consequences may be. While leaving plenty of latitude for a specific employer's policy, the program lays out simple guidelines for an employee who wishes to make a claim against a co-worker. Dealing With Sexual Harassment in the Workplace is an excellent program for several reasons. It tells employers and employees what they need to know. It presents the information in a serious, but non-threatening way--employees are encouraged to seek redress for suffering sexual harassment, but at the same time employers are advised to make sure that everything possible is done to ascertain the facts; an unwarranted claim can have a devastating effect on a worker's reputation with his or her co-workers. Finally, in the professional business tape arena, this package offers quality at an exceptionally low price. A perfect addition for small business collections and/or library staff. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (Available from: CounterTop Video, 13400 Northrup Way, #50, Bellevue, WA 98005; (206) 562-1202.)